relatively simple

USAGE SUMMARY

"relatively simple" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is not extremely simple but still relatively easy. For example, "The puzzle was relatively simple and didn't take long to complete."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sounds relatively simple, right?

The New York Times

Maintenance is relatively simple.

The New York Times

That was relatively simple.

The New York Times - Magazine

Breastfeeding was relatively simple.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"That sounds relatively simple.

The New York Times

It's relatively simple".

The New York Times

Processing is relatively simple.

The New York Times - Food

But they're relatively simple.

Cornell University

The scheme is relatively simple.

The Economist

Their method was relatively simple.

The New Yorker

Relinquishing citizenship is relatively simple.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "relatively simple" to convey a sense of manageability or ease without overstating the simplicity. It's useful when something isn't utterly basic, but still easy to grasp or execute.

Common error

Avoid using "relatively simple" when the subject is actually complex. This can mislead the audience and undermine your credibility. Instead, acknowledge the nuances before highlighting the aspects that are easier to manage.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively simple" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, indicating a moderate degree of simplicity. Ludwig examples show its use in describing processes, tasks, or concepts that are not overly complicated. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "relatively simple" is a versatile adjective phrase used to describe something that is moderately easy or uncomplicated, especially when compared to alternatives. As Ludwig highlights, it's grammatically sound and frequently used across diverse contexts like News & Media and Academia. When writing, use it to manage expectations of ease, ensuring clarity. Avoid overstating simplicity, as this can mislead your audience. Alternatives include "fairly straightforward" or "reasonably uncomplicated". Ludwig's analysis confirms its wide applicability and nuanced meaning, making it a valuable addition to your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fairly straightforward

Implies ease and directness, similar to simple but with an emphasis on the lack of complication.

reasonably uncomplicated

Highlights the absence of intricate details or difficulties.

comparatively easy

Directly states the ease of something when compared to something else.

moderately elementary

Suggests a basic level of skill or knowledge is needed.

somewhat rudimentary

Implies the basic and undeveloped nature of something.

not too intricate

Focuses on the lack of complexity and detailed design.

kind of basic

Informal way of saying something is simple and fundamental.

pretty undemanding

Emphasizes that something does not require much effort or skill.

plain sailing

An idiom suggesting that something is easy and without problems.

accessible enough

Highlights the ease with which something can be approached or understood.

FAQs

How can I use "relatively simple" in a sentence?

You can use "relatively simple" to describe tasks, concepts, or processes that are easier than expected, such as: "The instructions were "relatively simple", so I completed the project quickly."

What are some alternatives to "relatively simple"?

Alternatives include "fairly straightforward", "reasonably uncomplicated", or "comparatively easy" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "relatively simple" the same as "very simple"?

No, "relatively simple" implies something is easier compared to something else, while "very simple" suggests it is extremely easy in an absolute sense. The phrase "relatively simple" conveys a degree of simplicity without claiming it's the easiest possible thing.

In what contexts is "relatively simple" most appropriate?

The phrase "relatively simple" is appropriate in contexts where you want to acknowledge that something is not entirely without complexity but is manageable, especially compared to alternatives. It is useful in explanations and instructions where clarity is important.