by a simple reading

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by a simple reading" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an interpretation or understanding that can be easily derived from a text or situation without deep analysis. Example: "By a simple reading of the text, one can conclude that the author supports the main argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

I may not be poll guru Celinda Lake but a simple reading of recent state-by-state polls should give this conventional wisdom some pause.

Huffington Post

A simple reading of these two events separated by 50 years would be a) a new nation celebrates, and b) an old nation mourns.

The Guardian - Opinion

We defined the distance by the Manhattan distance, providing a simple read-out for the number of pathway scores differing between two samples.

Genome Medicine

In a well-known paper a few decades earlier, Turing had proposed that all computations involving integers, as well as all operations of logic, could be performed by a simple machine reading and modifying a tape carrying a linear sequence of symbols, the Universal Turing Machine (Turing, 1936 1937).

FEMS Microbiology Reviews

An assumption underlying the present study is that this process of mapping the time of a verb onto spatial formats is influenced by motor imagery activated by simple reading of a verb describing an action.

Plosone

For example, the trait 'abscisic acid content/sugar content in ear leaf 2 weeks after the last irrigation' is difficult to understand by simple reading of the trait name (this name was given to a QTL-based drought-tolerant maize trait).

AoB PLANTS

Benson has too many dimensions to be summed up by a simple radar-gun reading.

The New York Times - Sports

"For all the redundancy built into our systems multiple servers, multiple hosting sites, Raid drives, redundant power we were undone by a simple administrative task," reads a mea culpa statement on the blog of CrossRef, the organization that maintains the DOI system.

Science Magazine

He needn't taint his case by complaining that readers are now a bunch of lazy, tweeting bums in search of a simple "good read".

The Economist

In "How Orlo Got His Book", he described Orlo, a fictional, archetypal young child who was turned off of reading by the poor selection of simple reading material.

Wikipedia

From outside, it is marked only by a simple sign over the door that reads "Strikers".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When clarifying a complex issue, start "by a simple reading" to set a baseline understanding before delving into more intricate details.

Common error

Avoid using "by a simple reading" when the subject matter is inherently complex or requires nuanced understanding. Overstating simplicity can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by a simple reading" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It indicates the method or manner by which something is understood or interpreted, suggesting that the understanding is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Ludwig AI shows various examples where this phrase is used to introduce a conclusion easily derived from a text or situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

33%

News & Media

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Wiki

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by a simple reading" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate an easily derived interpretation or understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including science, news, and academia. While it's useful for establishing a quick baseline understanding, it’s important to avoid overstating simplicity in complex analyses. Alternatives like "from a basic interpretation" or "through a straightforward analysis" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. The phrase is neither overly formal nor informal, making it a reliable choice for many writing scenarios. Use it wisely to add clarity and efficiency to your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

From a basic interpretation

Focuses on the straightforward nature of the interpretation.

Based on a clear understanding

Emphasizes clarity as the basis of comprehension.

Through a straightforward analysis

Highlights the uncomplicated nature of the analysis.

With a cursory glance

Implies a quick and superficial examination.

Upon initial assessment

Stresses the preliminary stage of the evaluation.

From a surface-level examination

Highlights the lack of depth in the analysis.

By a superficial observation

Emphasizes the lack of careful scrutiny.

Using an elementary deduction

Highlights a simple reasoning process.

In light of a fundamental reading

Focuses on the basic or essential interpretation.

Given a primary understanding

Stresses the elementary level of comprehension.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by a simple reading"?

Alternatives include "from a basic interpretation", "through a straightforward analysis", or "with a cursory glance". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey; consider exploring "from a basic interpretation" to emphasize ease of understanding.

Is "by a simple reading" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "by a simple reading" is generally acceptable in formal writing. However, be mindful of the context. If the analysis is truly complex, consider using a more nuanced phrase like "through a rigorous analysis" instead.

What's the difference between "by a simple reading" and "by a close reading"?

"By a simple reading" implies a basic, surface-level understanding, while "by a close reading" indicates a detailed and thorough analysis. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the depth of your interpretation; also explore the meaning of "close reading".

When is it inappropriate to use "by a simple reading"?

Avoid using "by a simple reading" when the subject matter is intricate and requires a deep dive. Oversimplifying a complex topic can mislead the reader and undermine your argument; also consider when "by a thorough investigation" may be a better approach.