a simple word

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple word" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a word that is easy to understand or not complex in meaning. Example: "In this context, I need you to use a simple word to convey your message clearly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"It is a simple word!

The New York Times

Take a simple word like "justice".

The Guardian

Take a simple word like "bury", for example.

The Economist

Such a simple word, such a difficult state to achieve.

The Guardian - Music

Equality: a simple word that Americans have fought and died for, and yet a simple word that the PGA Tour has long ignored.

The New York Times

"Necessity" is a simple word that means "an imperative requirement or need for something".

The New York Times

The D.O.J. has a simple word for such an arrangement: corruption.

The New Yorker

Yes. It's such a simple word: so easy to say, so pleasing to hear.

The Guardian - Opinion

His signature is his Word Range - clean, contemporary shapes which are stamped with a simple word.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Her system for remembering the order of a deck of cards is to tag each one with a simple word.

The New York Times - Arts

The computer comes with a stripped-down Web browser, a simple word processor and a number of learning programs.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, use "a simple word" to ensure your message is easily understood by a broad audience.

Common error

Avoid substituting "a simple word" with overly technical or jargon-filled alternatives when simplicity is key to effective communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple word" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "simple" modifies the noun "word". This phrase typically serves to describe a term that is easily understood or not complex in its meaning, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

18%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a simple word" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that emphasizes clarity and ease of understanding. According to Ludwig, it functions to describe a term that is not complex, making it accessible to a broad audience. Predominantly found in news and media, science, and wiki sources, the phrase maintains a neutral register. When aiming for clear communication, using "a simple word" can be highly effective, but it's crucial to balance simplicity with the need for precision. Therefore, avoiding overly technical or jargon-filled alternatives is essential to ensure that your message is easily grasped.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an easy word

Replaces "simple" with "easy", focusing on the lack of difficulty in understanding or using the word.

a basic term

Uses "basic" instead of "simple", highlighting the fundamental nature of the word.

a straightforward word

Emphasizes the directness and lack of ambiguity in the word's meaning.

an uncomplicated term

Focuses on the absence of complexity in the word's structure or meaning.

a plain word

Highlights the unpretentious and ordinary nature of the word.

an elementary term

Indicates that the word is at a foundational level of understanding.

a fundamental word

Stresses that the word is one of the basics or essentials.

a common word

Refers to the frequent use and familiarity of the word.

a concise term

Highlights the brevity and directness of the word.

a manageable word

Suggests the word is not overwhelming or difficult to learn.

FAQs

How can I use "a simple word" effectively in a sentence?

Use "a simple word" when you want to emphasize the ease of understanding or lack of complexity in the term being used. For example, "The key to good communication is often using "a simple word"."

What can I say instead of "a simple word"?

You can use alternatives like "an easy term", "a basic word", or "a plain word" depending on the context.

Is it always better to use "a simple word"?

While clarity is crucial, sometimes a more precise or technical term is necessary for accuracy. Consider your audience and the context to determine whether "a simple word" or a more specific term is appropriate.

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

"A simple word" is easy to understand and use, while "a complex word" may have multiple meanings, technical applications, or be less familiar to a general audience. Choosing between them depends on the intended audience and the level of precision required.