it was very simplistic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was very simplistic" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is overly simple or lacking in complexity, often in a critical context. Example: "The explanation provided was so basic that it was very simplistic and failed to address the nuances of the topic."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

In some ways, it was very simplistic.

The New York Times

He felt that it was "more suspense and adventure than horror", wishing that it was scarier, and also commented that it was "very simplistic" and did not re-introduce the Silurians as well as it would have, had they been part of the overall storyline.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

I really admire how un-showy it is: it's very simplistic in its storytelling and I think that's the film's power.

The Guardian - Film

It's very simplistic".

The New York Times

"But it's very simplistic: URLs with Sussex or Essex in them, for example, are blocked.

The Guardian - Tech

What's great about the story is that it's very simplistic.

The Guardian - Film

The fact is, as any of them will tell you it is very simplistic rigorous conditioning done over a period of years on a schedule.

WikiHow

However, the method of establishing a node's available capacity was not specified, and the admission control strategy was very simplistic.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

[Dutta's piece] was very simplistic.

Los Angeles Times

While some praised the horror, some noted that the story was very simplistic, and critics disagreed about the redesigned Silurians.

Wikipedia

You simply went into a job that was very simplistic, and whereupon you mostly did the same thing over and over again.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it was very simplistic", ensure that the context clearly indicates what 'it' refers to. Avoid ambiguity by providing sufficient background information.

Common error

Avoid using "it was very simplistic" as a blanket statement without providing specific reasons why something is overly simplified. Be clear and concise to add value to your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was very simplistic" functions as a judgmental statement about a subject, indicating that the subject lacks complexity or depth. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in criticizing explanations, stories, or models for being overly simple.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

23%

Science

23%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it was very simplistic" is used to denote a lack of complexity or depth in a subject, frequently carrying a critical connotation. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and its widespread usage across diverse fields like news, science, and general knowledge. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable for expressing critical evaluation. While the frequency is "common", it's important to ensure its use is precise and contextually relevant, as overgeneralization can weaken the critique. Consider more nuanced alternatives like "it was oversimplified" or "it lacked nuance" to enhance clarity and professionalism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was exceedingly simple

This alternative emphasizes the ease and lack of complexity more strongly.

it was overly simplified

This suggests that something has been made simpler than it should be.

it was excessively basic

This emphasizes the fundamental and rudimentary nature of something.

it was too straightforward

Highlights the direct and uncomplicated nature, potentially lacking depth.

it lacked nuance

Focuses on the absence of subtle differences or complexities.

it was a shallow interpretation

Indicates a lack of depth or thoroughness in understanding.

it was a facile explanation

Implies a superficial and easily achieved understanding that lacks substance.

it was rudimentary

Highlights the elementary or basic stage of development.

it was superficial

Indicates a lack of thoroughness or depth.

it was skin-deep

Emphasizes the lack of substance beneath an apparent surface.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it was very simplistic" to sound more professional?

Consider alternatives such as "it lacked sufficient complexity", "it was an oversimplification", or "it did not address the nuances of the issue". These options offer a more refined critique.

Is "it was very simplistic" always negative?

While often used critically, "it was very simplistic" can be neutral depending on the context. Sometimes, simplicity is desirable. However, ensure the tone aligns with your intention.

What's the difference between "it was simplistic" and "it was oversimplified"?

"It was simplistic" suggests a lack of complexity, while "it was oversimplified" implies that something was made simpler than it should have been, often losing crucial details.

How to use "it was very simplistic" in a sentence?

You can use "it was very simplistic" to criticize an explanation, model, or approach for lacking detail or nuance. For example, "The model's representation of the economy was very simplistic and failed to account for external factors".