a simple type

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple type" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a basic or uncomplicated category or classification of something, often in contexts like programming or descriptions of objects. Example: "In this programming language, a simple type can include integers, booleans, and characters."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

The Spread of Infection on a Square Grid is an example of bootstrap percolation, a simple type of cellular automaton.

The New York Times

The group has published a specification for a mobile "widget," a simple type of phone application that displays live updates of limited data, like the current temperature.

The New York Times

The ordinary hand bellows, used by early smelters and blacksmiths for working iron and other metals, was a simple type of air compressor.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The biggest surprise might be Wilson, a gifted actor who has never found quite the right vehicle for his movie-star looks, who gives great depth to a simple type with a steely resolve to do the right thing.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

All cycads may be called "functional conifers," for all species bear strobili; these strobili are of a simple type, unlike those of true conifers, which bear more complex, compound strobili.

Encyclopedia Britannica

So, while Toyota spent heavily on rooftop photovoltaic cells for its "green" South Campus complex -- a cost it will take the company seven years to recoup, officials said -- the company also saved money with a simple type of tilt-up construction that is commonly used to build warehouses.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Last November a simple typing error left it at least $50m out of pocket.

The Economist

We now have all the materials to construct a simple type-theoretic hierarchy of functions.

SEP

To decrease the computational cost of the GT2FS, a simple type-reduction method is proposed.

Applied Soft Computing

Toward the end of the Romanesque period a simpler type of candlestick appeared, mainly intended for religious purposes, though they were found in private homes as well.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On the other hand if you prefer a simpler type of workout, like going for a bicycle ride, taking a fast walk or going for a jog, then there are apps like the $2.99 Run Tracker Pro for iOS.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a simple type", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the type 'simple'. Be specific to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a simple type" as a vague descriptor. Instead, specify the criteria that define the simplicity, such as "a simple type of algorithm based on linear regression" rather than just "a simple type of algorithm".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple type" primarily functions as a descriptor, specifically an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It serves to classify something as being basic, uncomplicated, or elementary. Ludwig's examples confirm this usage across varied contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

45%

News & Media

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a simple type" serves as a common descriptor to denote something basic or uncomplicated. As Ludwig AI indicates, its grammatical function is as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, and it's suitable for various contexts, from science and technology to general descriptions. While generally correct, ensure clarity by specifying what makes the type "simple" and avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives like "a basic kind" or "an elementary variety" can add nuance. Use the phrase thoughtfully to enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a basic kind

Replaces 'type' with 'kind', emphasizing the fundamental nature.

a fundamental sort

Uses 'fundamental' to stress the foundational aspect and 'sort' as a substitute for 'type'.

an elementary variety

Substitutes 'simple' with 'elementary' highlighting the uncomplicated aspect, and replaces 'type' with 'variety'.

a straightforward category

Emphasizes the lack of complexity by using 'straightforward' and replaces 'type' with 'category'.

a plain form

Uses 'plain' to indicate simplicity and 'form' instead of 'type'.

a rudimentary class

Highlights the initial stage or basic level by using 'rudimentary' and replaces 'type' with 'class'.

a primary classification

Focuses on the foundational aspect using 'primary' and substitutes 'type' with 'classification'.

an uncomplicated version

Directly addresses the lack of complexity using 'uncomplicated' and replaces 'type' with 'version'.

a minimalist style

Emphasizes simplicity through reduction using 'minimalist' and replaces 'type' with 'style'.

a barebones version

Uses 'barebones' to illustrate essential simplicity and replaces 'type' with 'version'.

FAQs

How can I use "a simple type" in a sentence?

You can use "a simple type" to describe something that is basic or uncomplicated within a specific category. For instance, "This is "a simple type of" database suitable for small businesses".

What are some alternatives to "a simple type"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a basic kind", "an elementary variety", or "a straightforward category".

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "a simple type"?

While generally correct, overuse of "a simple type" without sufficient context can lead to vagueness. Ensure the simplicity is relevant and clear. Saying something like "This is "a basic example"" is more clear.

What is the difference between "a simple type" and "a complex type"?

"A simple type" refers to something basic and easy to understand, while "a complex type" indicates something more intricate and involved. For example, "a simple type" of data structure may be an array, whereas a complex type could be a graph database.