is that simple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is that simple" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to emphasize that something is straightforward or uncomplicated. Example: "The solution to the problem is that simple." Alternative expressions include "is that easy" and "is that clear."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

But I'd be surprised if the interpretation is that simple".

The New York Times

It is that simple - no gray areas.

Huffington Post

I think the answer is that simple".

Huffington Post

It is that simple.

The New York Times

I doubt it is that simple.

The New York Times

But little about Jackson is that simple.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

If only it were that simple, though.

The New York Times - Books

My best-kept kitchen secret is... that simple is best.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"It's that simple".

The New York Times

"It was that simple".

The New York Times

Nothing could be that simple.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is that simple" to emphasize the ease or straightforwardness of a solution, instruction, or explanation. It's most effective when you want to highlight a lack of complexity or potential underestimation of a task.

Common error

Avoid using "is that simple" when describing situations or problems that are known to be intricate or multifaceted. Overusing it in such cases can sound dismissive or naive.

Linguistic Context

"Is that simple" functions as an interrogative phrase used to confirm or question the perceived lack of complexity of a situation or solution. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through various examples, highlighting its role in emphasizing straightforwardness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Wiki

8%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is that simple" is a versatile phrase used to question or confirm the apparent simplicity of a situation or solution. Ludwig AI analysis shows it's grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts. While it can be effective for emphasizing straightforwardness, it's crucial to avoid overusing it in complex situations to prevent sounding dismissive. Alternative phrases like "is it really that easy?" or "is it genuinely this uncomplicated?" can offer nuanced ways to express similar ideas. The phrase serves to inquire about or emphasize a lack of complexity, while considering context and avoiding overuse will ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is it really that easy

This alternative emphasizes the ease and lack of complication, adding a touch of skepticism or surprise.

is it as easy as that

This questions whether the task or solution is truly as uncomplicated as it seems, implying potential hidden difficulties.

is it truly that basic

This highlights the fundamental or rudimentary nature of something, suggesting a lack of complexity.

can it be that elementary

This questions whether something can be reduced to its most basic elements, sometimes implying disbelief.

is the solution so straightforward

This focuses on the directness and lack of ambiguity in the solution, highlighting its uncomplicated nature.

is it genuinely this uncomplicated

This questions the lack of complexity in something, often with a hint of disbelief or concern.

is the explanation that clear cut

This focuses on the lack of ambiguity and the definitive nature of the explanation.

is it quite so black and white

This questions the lack of nuance and the overly simplified nature of a situation.

could it be any more direct

This emphasizes the straightforwardness of something, sometimes with a touch of sarcasm.

is there nothing more to it

This questions whether something is truly as simple as it appears, suggesting that there may be hidden complexities.

FAQs

How can I use "is that simple" in a sentence?

You can use "is that simple" to express that something is straightforward. For example: "The solution to the problem "is that simple"."

What's a more formal way to say "is that simple"?

In a more formal context, you could say "is it really that straightforward?" or "is it genuinely this uncomplicated?" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What can I say instead of "is that simple" to express disbelief?

If you want to express disbelief, you could use phrases like "can it be that elementary?" or "is the solution so straightforward?". These imply skepticism about the apparent simplicity.

When is it inappropriate to use "is that simple"?

It's best to avoid using "is that simple" when discussing complex or sensitive topics where the simplicity could be seen as dismissive or lacking understanding of the nuances involved.