put it simply

USAGE SUMMARY

"put it simply" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to explain something complex in a straightforward way. For example, you could say, "The economic situation in the country is very complicated, but put it simply, the government needs to increase taxes to help pay off its debts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

To put it simply, no.

Independent

You are, to put it simply, screwed.

The New York Times

Mr. Daniels put it simply.

The New York Times

To put it simply: not much happens.

The Guardian - Books

"To put it simply – it's stupid.

The Guardian

"Put it simply: Oriel has sold out.

The Guardian

I'll put it simply: this team is the best.

Independent

Sound Editing: To put it simply, sound effects; "American Sniper".

The New Yorker

To put it simply, it's what I want to drink.

The New York Times

Sampras put it simply: "In my eyes, it's over".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Or, to put it simply we are all complicit.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "put it simply" to introduce a concise explanation after presenting complex information. It signals to the reader that you're about to provide a more digestible version.

Common error

Avoid using "put it simply" excessively in casual conversations. While grammatically correct, it can sound somewhat stilted or condescending in very informal settings. Opt for more natural alternatives like "basically" or "in short".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put it simply" functions as a discourse marker or introductory phrase. It signals to the audience that the speaker or writer is about to offer a simplified explanation of something complex. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "put it simply" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a simplified explanation of complex information. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, avoid overuse in extremely informal situations. When using "put it simply", ensure it genuinely aids clarity and isn't used to oversimplify nuanced topics. Alternatives like "in simpler terms" or "simply put" offer stylistic variations to the same function.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in simpler terms

Uses different wording to convey the same act of simplifying.

simply put

Inverts the structure of the original phrase.

to put it another way

Offers an alternative phrasing for clarification.

in other words

Rephrases the previous statement for clarity.

to be clear

Introduces a clarification of a previous statement.

to break it down

Suggests a simplification process.

in short

Condenses a longer explanation into a concise statement.

in essence

Captures the core meaning of something.

boiling it down

Presents a simplified explanation.

to summarize

Provides a brief overview of the main points.

FAQs

What does "put it simply" mean?

The expression "put it simply" is used to indicate that what follows is a simplified explanation of something that is otherwise complex. It's a way to clarify or summarize information for easier understanding.

How can I use "put it simply" in a sentence?

You can use "put it simply" to introduce a summarized or easier-to-understand version of something you have already explained in detail. For example, "The process is complex, but to "put it simply", we need to reduce costs."

What are some alternatives to "put it simply"?

Some alternatives to "put it simply" include phrases like "in simpler terms", "simply put", or "in other words". These phrases all serve the purpose of rephrasing something in a more straightforward way.

When is it appropriate to use "put it simply"?

It's appropriate to use "put it simply" when you want to ensure your audience understands a concept or process that may be difficult to grasp in its entirety. It is especially useful in scenarios where you need to balance technical accuracy with general comprehension.