but as simple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but as simple" is not complete on its own and may require additional context to be fully correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when contrasting simplicity with another idea or concept, often in a comparative context. Example: "The solution is effective, but as simple as it may seem, it requires careful implementation."

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

I don't mean that as the usual figurative praise on how good a book it is, but as simple fact.

The Guardian - Books

But as simple an explanation as "the prices are higher" is, it is a devilishly difficult problem to fix.

The Washington Post

The result is that business students often take the conceptual tools they are taught not as instruments but as simple descriptions of reality.

Harvard Business Review

Viewers, meanwhile, are advised to interpret some of the snippier comments as neither locker-room wisdom nor personal attacks, but as simple byproducts of filling too many broadcast hours with too few topics on too accelerated a sports news cycle.

The New York Times - Sports

"I defend any member of our party as long as there's no proof of wrongdoing, but as simple mortals we can commit errors," Ricardo Canavati, the PRI's current president in Nuevo Leon, said in an interview in a Monterrey hotel.

The New York Times

But as simple as that sounds, it can be easier said than done.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

But something as simple as ordering groceries online is an example of asking for help.

The Washington Post

Both models are process-based, but kept as simple as possible.

Ecological Modelling

It seems so simple, but something as simple as that can protect the owed respect dynamic and a takeaway.

Harvard Business Review

I've offered a few winter squash gratin recipes over the years, but none as simple as this one.

The New York Times - Health

There are a few solutions but nothing as simple as, say, a PayPal transaction.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Enhance clarity by adding a clause that explains why the simplicity is notable, for example, "but as simple as it is, it's incredibly effective".

Common error

Avoid using "but as simple" without providing a clear contrast or explanation of why the simplicity is significant. Without this context, the phrase can sound incomplete or confusing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but as simple" primarily functions as a conjunctional phrase, introducing a contrasting element while emphasizing the simplicity of something. As evidenced by the examples found by Ludwig, it often sets up a counterpoint to effectiveness or unexpected outcomes.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but as simple" functions as a conjunctional phrase, primarily used to introduce a contrasting element while emphasizing the simplicity of something. While the phrase is grammatically acceptable, Ludwig AI indicates that it benefits from added context. Its register is generally neutral. When using this phrase, ensure a clear contrast and avoid using it without further explanation to maintain clarity. Common alternatives include "yet it's straightforward" and "despite its simplicity".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

despite its simplicity

Directly acknowledges the simple nature of something while introducing a contrast.

though quite basic

A straightforward substitution highlighting the fundamental nature and setting up a contrast.

yet it's straightforward

Replaces "but as simple" with a more concise conjunction indicating ease and directness.

though seemingly uncomplicated

Emphasizes that something is not as complex as initially perceived, similar to highlighting simplicity.

while appearing basic

Highlights simplicity as a contrast to potential hidden complexities.

although elementary

Uses "elementary" as a synonym for simple, setting up a contrast.

however rudimentary

Indicates a contrast despite a basic or undeveloped state.

notwithstanding its ease

Acknowledges simplicity while introducing a contrasting element.

even if unrefined

Highlights simplicity in contrast with a lack of polish or sophistication.

while admittedly unsophisticated

Acknowledges the lack of sophistication but is still a contrast.

FAQs

How can I use "but as simple" in a sentence?

Use "but as simple" to contrast an idea's simplicity with its effectiveness or unexpected implications. For example, "The solution is cost-effective, "but as simple" as it may seem, it requires careful implementation."

What are some alternatives to "but as simple"?

Alternatives include "yet it's straightforward", "despite its simplicity", or "though quite basic", depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "but as simple"?

Starting a sentence with "but" is generally acceptable in informal writing. However, starting with ""but as simple"" is not advisable due to its incomplete nature. Instead, consider placing it within the sentence to maintain clarity and flow.

What's the difference between "but simple" and "but as simple"?

"But simple" suggests basic or uncomplicated. "But as simple" emphasizes the degree of simplicity, often in contrast to an unexpected result or implication. The "as" adds a comparative or emphasizing element.