just simply

USAGE SUMMARY

Sentence The phrase "just simply" is technically correct and can be used in written English, but it is considered to be a little informal for formal writing.
It can be used in informal settings, such as conversation, emails, and text messages. For example: "I'm just simply not in the mood to go out tonight."

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's just simply amazing.

Princeton University

It just simply isn't fair".

The New York Times - Sports

It just simply isn't possible".

The New York Times

He just simply outworks people".

The New York Times - Sports

"Just simply too young.

The New York Times

People just simply assumed.

The Guardian

Just simply amazing value.

The Guardian

We might just simply decimate.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It just simply didn't work.

Yale University

I just simply couldn't stay.

The Washington Post

I just simply want help.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "just simply" isn't incorrect, consider using "simply" alone for a more concise and professional tone in formal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "just simply" in formal documents or academic papers. The word "simply" already implies straightforwardness; adding "just" can sound redundant and less polished.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "just simply" functions as an intensifying adverb, modifying verbs or adjectives to add emphasis. Ludwig provides examples where it amplifies statements, though the phrase's redundancy is noted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

22%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "just simply" is frequently used but often considered redundant. While Ludwig AI deems it acceptable, it's generally more effective and professional to use "simply" alone, particularly in formal writing. Its purpose is to add emphasis, but its register leans towards informal contexts. When deciding whether to use "just simply", consider your audience and the desired tone: for clear and concise communication, especially in professional settings, "simply" is the preferred choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simply

A more concise and grammatically preferred alternative to "just simply".

just

A shorter form that conveys a similar meaning of straightforwardness.

plainly

Conveys straightforwardness, lacking the redundancy of "just simply".

purely

Highlights the unadulterated nature of something, akin to the simplifying aspect of "just simply".

merely

Emphasizes limitation, similar to how "just simply" can restrict scope.

only

Indicates exclusivity or limitation, mirroring a potential nuance in "just simply".

absolutely

Emphasizes certainty, adding a stronger tone than "just simply".

completely

Implies thoroughness, a nuance not always present in "just simply".

utterly

Suggests completeness, diverging slightly in focus from the streamlining effect of "just simply".

truly

Indicates genuineness, adding an element of authenticity that "just simply" may lack.

FAQs

Is "just simply" grammatically correct?

While not strictly incorrect, the phrase "just simply" is often considered redundant. The word "simply" usually suffices to convey the intended meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "just simply"?

The phrase "just simply" is more appropriate in informal contexts like casual conversations or personal emails. In formal writing, it's better to use "simply" or another more concise alternative.

What are some alternatives to "just simply"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "simply", "just", "merely", or "plainly" instead of "just simply".

Is there a difference in meaning between "just simply" and "simply"?

The difference is subtle. "Just simply" can add a touch of emphasis, but "simply" is generally clearer and more concise. The added emphasis of "just simply" is often unnecessary and can make your writing sound less professional.