a simple yes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple yes" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to emphasize that the answer to a question is straightforward and uncomplicated. Example: "When asked if he would attend the meeting, he replied with a simple yes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

It's a simple yes or no.

The New York Times

"The answer is a simple yes".

The New York Times

Their choice is a simple yes or no.

The Economist

But that decision won't be a simple yes or no.

The New Yorker

The answer is far from a simple "yes" or "no".

The New York Times

Surely a simple yes or no would have sufficed.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

That question would seem to lend itself to a simple yes-or-no answer.

The New York Times

"It's very complicated and goes beyond a simple yes-no question.

Los Angeles Times

Each variable was scored on a simple yes/no basis.

Applied Animal Behaviour Science

A simple yes/no answer will not work here.

BBC

An example of a simple yes/no question could be: Was a change in legislation required to implement Art.

Crime Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a simple yes" when you want to underscore the straightforwardness and lack of complication in an affirmative response, particularly when complexity might be expected or implied.

Common error

Avoid using "a simple yes" when the situation warrants a more nuanced or detailed response. Overusing it can make you appear dismissive or lacking in understanding of the complexities involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple yes" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "simple" modifies the noun "yes". It typically serves to emphasize the straightforwardness of an affirmative response. Ludwig confirms that this phrase is correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

22%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a simple yes" is a commonly used phrase that emphasizes the straightforward and uncomplicated nature of an affirmative response. As Ludwig's AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and appears across various contexts, including news media, science, and wikis. It's most effective when the intent is to avoid ambiguity and highlight the lack of need for further elaboration. However, it's crucial to avoid using "a simple yes" in situations that require more nuanced or detailed responses, as this may come across as dismissive or lacking in understanding. Consider alternatives like "a straightforward yes" or "just a yes" when a slightly different emphasis is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A straightforward yes

Emphasizes the directness and lack of ambiguity in the affirmative response.

A plain yes

Highlights the simplicity and unadorned nature of the affirmation.

Just a yes

Underscores that nothing more than a simple affirmation is required or given.

A clear yes

Focuses on the unambiguous and easily understood nature of the affirmative answer.

A basic yes

Implies that the affirmation is fundamental and requires no further explanation.

A direct affirmation

Replaces "yes" with a more formal term for agreement, suitable for professional contexts.

A brief affirmative

Highlights that only a short expression of agreement is given.

An uncomplicated yes

Stresses the lack of complexity associated with the affirmation.

A short agreement

Emphasizes the brevity and straightforwardness of the response.

Simply yes

Highlights the lack of additional information or explanation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a simple yes" to emphasize the straightforward nature of an affirmative answer. For example, "When asked if he supported the proposal, he gave "a simple yes"".

What's an alternative to "a simple yes"?

Alternatives include "a straightforward yes", "a plain yes", or "just a yes", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a simple yes"?

It's appropriate to use "a simple yes" when the question is straightforward and requires no additional explanation or qualification. It's best used when you want to emphasize the lack of complication.

Is it ever inappropriate to use "a simple yes"?

Yes, it can be inappropriate if the situation requires a more detailed or nuanced response. Using it in such cases might make you seem dismissive or lacking in understanding. For example, when asked about your health it's usually better to avoid answering with "a simple yes".