a simpler cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simpler cause" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a reason or explanation that is less complex than others being considered. Example: "After reviewing the evidence, we concluded that a simpler cause was responsible for the issue rather than the more complicated theories proposed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Mr. Dodd saw a simpler cause.

The New York Times

Total migration has been positive for California since 1996.California's domestic out-migration, moreover, may have a simpler cause than dysfunctional government or high taxes.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

OBESITY SEEMS TO have a simple cause.

The Economist

But researchers say the new outbreak probably does not have such a simple cause.

The New York Times

Amid Turks in Germany, Algerians in France and Pakistanis in Britain, it is vain to look for a simple cause that determines the conversion to jihad (literally, struggle).

The Economist

Nevertheless, the landforms associated with such volcanic phenomena resemble those in other settings for which a simple cause can be offered.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Tamborine," with its focus on the grim business of growing up, suggests a simple cause for their incommensurability: when you get old, you sour somewhat, whether you'd like to or not.

The New Yorker

Little wonder that the Falklands war which was fought against a state, for a simple cause and to a swift and absolute victory still inspires pride and nostalgia in Britain.Perhaps its most tangible impact has been on defence spending.

The Economist

These confusions had a simple cause: the empire of Austria with its various fragments was the dynastic possession of the house of Habsburg, not a state with any common consciousness or purpose.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Professor Peter Piot, director of the school, said: "Jeroen was passionately committed to a simple cause: improving access to water and sanitation in countries where children die needlessly due to the lack of these basic services.

Independent

"Jeroen was passionately committed to a simple cause: improving access to water and sanitation in countries where children continue to die needlessly due to the lack of these basic services".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When seeking to clarify a complex situation, use "a simpler cause" to steer the discussion towards more understandable explanations.

Common error

Avoid using "a simpler cause" to dismiss valid but complex explanations. Ensure the simpler cause adequately addresses the situation's nuances.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simpler cause" functions as a noun phrase, where "simpler" modifies "cause". It typically serves as the object of a verb or preposition, identifying a reason or explanation that is less complex than other possibilities. As seen in Ludwig, Ludwig AI suggests that the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a simpler cause" serves to propose a less complex explanation for a situation, often in contrast to more complicated alternatives. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While grammatically sound and appearing in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Economist, its frequency is rare, suggesting a specific rather than ubiquitous usage. When using this phrase, be sure to balance simplicity with thoroughness, avoiding oversimplification that could obscure critical details.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a less complex reason

Emphasizes reduced complexity in the rationale.

a more straightforward explanation

Highlights directness and ease of understanding.

an easier explanation

Focuses on the ease with which the explanation can be understood.

a less convoluted reason

Indicates a reason that avoids unnecessary complications.

a more basic rationale

Suggests a fundamental and uncomplicated underlying principle.

a plain explanation

Highlights lack of ornamentation or complexity in the reason.

a trimmed-down explanation

Focuses on presenting an explanation in its most concise form.

a streamlined rationale

Highlights efficiency and lack of extraneous details in the reason.

a de-complicated cause

Indicates effort has been made to remove complexity from the reason.

a less intricate reason

Focuses on reducing fine details and complexity within the reason.

FAQs

How can I use "a simpler cause" in a sentence?

You can use "a simpler cause" when explaining a situation by attributing it to a less complex reason than initially assumed. For example, "After considering all the factors, we determined that "a simpler cause" was at play".

What are some alternatives to saying "a simpler cause"?

You can use alternatives like "a less complex reason", "a more straightforward explanation", or "an easier explanation" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to look for "a simpler cause"?

It's appropriate when initial explanations are overly complicated or fail to fully address the issue. Seeking "a simpler cause" can lead to a more efficient and effective solution.

What is the risk of attributing something to "a simpler cause"?

The risk is oversimplification, potentially overlooking important factors or nuances. Always ensure that "a simpler cause" sufficiently explains the situation without ignoring relevant complexities.