principle of simplicity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "principle of simplicity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing concepts or theories that emphasize simplicity as a guiding principle in various fields, such as design, science, or philosophy. Example: "In design, the principle of simplicity suggests that the best solutions are often the most straightforward and uncomplicated."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Pope Francis, in his simple black shoes and unassuming car and house, is the first pontiff in a long time to reject flashy shows of power and live by the principle of simplicity.

The Guardian - Opinion

By persisting with the principle of simplicity and avoiding over-parameterization, a new model was developed and validated using measured data of 1804 storm rainfall runoff events from 39 South Korean watersheds.

Journal of Hydrology

Pocket has always remained true to its founding principle of simplicity.

TechCrunch

Consequently, in their later attempts (Anifowose and Abdulraheem 2011; Anifowose et al. 2013, 2014b), the same authors (mentioned above) focused on rather simpler methodologies to combine the hybrid models following the Occam Razor's principle of simplicity (Jefferys and Berger 1991).

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

In this sense, the principle of simplicity obliges us to favor theories or hypotheses that make the fewest unwarranted, or ad hoc, assumptions about the data from which they are derived.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Little evidence or criteria are available on extraction decisions for Angle's class II division 1 malocclusions with the most commonly used mechanics and the principle of simplicity in orthodontic treatment.

Progress in Orthodontics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Matthew Barnes, chief executiveof Aldi UK, said: "We're applying our well established Aldi principles of simplicity and efficiency to our new online operation.

The Guardian - Business

"I've applied the same principles of simplicity and directness to the way I cut both my men's and women's," she says.

The New York Times

He spent much of his career trying to reconcile his Japanese heritage with a life lived elsewhere, bringing Japanese principles of simplicity to his work: sculptures, rock gardens, set designs for Martha Graham.

The New Yorker

Standard tax principles of simplicity, efficiency and equity should guide our thinking in allocating the "residual value" as the Independent Commission for the Reform of International Corporate Taxation (of which I am a member) advocates.

The Guardian - Business

And, similarly, Ockham's account was not noticeably simpler than the accounts it criticised, which shows how far Ockham's own razor was from the principles of simplicity and the like, which are usually considered to be its modern equivalents.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the "principle of simplicity", ensure that the context clearly benefits from simplification, rather than sacrificing necessary complexity or detail.

Common error

Avoid oversimplifying complex issues to the point where accuracy or nuance is lost. The "principle of simplicity" should guide towards clarity, not reductionism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "principle of simplicity" functions as a noun phrase that identifies a guiding rule or fundamental concept. It is used to advocate for straightforwardness and lack of unnecessary complexity in various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The "principle of simplicity" is a noun phrase that champions straightforwardness and clarity. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and finds frequent application in science and news media. While advocating for clarity, it's crucial to avoid oversimplification, which can sacrifice necessary details. Alternative phrases include "Occam's razor" and "law of parsimony". Ultimately, the phrase encourages efficient communication and problem-solving by focusing on essential elements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

law of parsimony

Focuses specifically on avoiding unnecessary assumptions in explanations.

Occam's razor

Highlights the preference for the simplest explanation among competing hypotheses.

simplicity doctrine

Emphasizes simplicity as a core tenet in a particular field or context.

economy of explanation

Prioritizes explanations that use the fewest resources or assumptions.

elegance in design

Focuses on achieving simplicity and effectiveness in design.

minimalist approach

Describes a strategy that focuses on reducing elements to the essentials.

streamlined methodology

Refers to a simplified and more efficient process or method.

uncomplicated process

Describes a procedure that is easy to understand and execute.

straightforward solution

Highlights a solution that is direct and easy to implement.

essentialism

Focuses on identifying and prioritizing the most important aspects.

FAQs

How can I effectively apply the "principle of simplicity" in problem-solving?

Start by identifying the core issue, removing unnecessary steps or information, and focusing on the most direct and efficient solution. Remember, simplicity should enhance clarity, not diminish accuracy.

What is the difference between "Occam's razor" and the "principle of simplicity"?

"Occam's razor" is a specific application of the "principle of simplicity", suggesting that the simplest explanation is usually the best. The "principle of simplicity" is a broader concept that values simplicity in various contexts, not just explanation.

When is it inappropriate to apply the "principle of simplicity"?

It's inappropriate when simplifying would lead to overlooking crucial details, sacrificing necessary complexity, or distorting accuracy. Complex problems may require complex solutions.

What are some alternative phrases for the "principle of simplicity"?

You can use alternatives like "law of parsimony", "economy of explanation", or "minimalist approach depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.