simple as it is

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simple as it is" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to something that is straightforward or uncomplicated. For example, "The task may seem daunting, but it's actually quite simple as it is."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Her piece AFRIKEA is as simple as it is beautiful and if nothing else, dysfunctional in its practicality.

Huffington Post

"That's as simple as it is".

The New York Times - Sports

"That's just as simple as it is.

The New York Times - Sports

The Brown recipe is as simple as it is elusive.

Independent

The job is as simple as it is foul.

The New Yorker

The idea is as simple as it is brilliant.

The Guardian - Arts

The answer is as simple as it is depressing.

The Guardian - Opinion

The basic formula is as simple as it is stunning.

The New York Times - Style

Repurposing waste can be as simple as it is ingenious.

The Guardian

Juicing though isn't as simple as it is with an orange.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The device simple as it is would really have come in handy at that point in the show.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simple as it is" to introduce a statement that acknowledges the apparent ease of something while hinting at underlying complexities or significance. This adds depth to your writing by suggesting there's more than meets the eye.

Common error

Avoid using "simple as it is" as a filler phrase. Ensure that when you use it, you follow up with a contrasting point or an unexpected nuance. Overusing the phrase without adding meaningful insight can make your writing sound repetitive and shallow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simple as it is" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause by providing additional information or context. It typically introduces a statement that acknowledges the apparent simplicity of something, often followed by a contrasting or surprising element. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

19%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "simple as it is" is a versatile and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to acknowledge the apparent straightforwardness of a subject while hinting at underlying complexities or unexpected nuances. It's grammatically correct and can be used in various contexts, including news articles, scientific publications, and everyday conversations. Common alternatives include "uncomplicated as it is" and "straightforward as it is". When using "simple as it is", ensure you add meaningful insight and avoid overuse to maintain the quality and depth of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simplex as it is

Replaces "simple" with "simplex", a less common but similar word implying lack of complexity.

uncomplicated as it is

Substitutes "simple" with "uncomplicated", highlighting the absence of difficulty or complexity.

straightforward as it is

Substitutes "simple" with "straightforward", stressing the direct and uncomplicated nature.

simple as it sounds

Highlights that something may be deceivingly easy, even just from its description.

plain as it is

Replaces "simple" with "plain", indicating a lack of ornamentation or embellishment.

brief as it is

Emphasizes the conciseness of something, shifting the focus from simplicity to brevity.

easy to use as it is

Explicitly highlights the usability and ease of operation associated with the subject.

user friendly as it is

Focuses on the positive attribute of being easy for a user to interact with.

modest as it is

Substitutes "simple" with "modest", focusing on the unassuming nature of something.

simplistic as it is

Replaces "simple" with "simplistic", suggesting an oversimplified or naive quality.

FAQs

How can I use "simple as it is" in a sentence?

The phrase "simple as it is" is often used to introduce a surprising element or unexpected complexity following an initial assessment of simplicity. For example: "The solution seems "simple as it is", but its implementation requires careful planning".

What can I say instead of "simple as it is"?

You can use alternatives like "uncomplicated as it is", "straightforward as it is", or "easy to use as it is" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "simple as it is"?

It's appropriate to use "simple as it is" when you want to acknowledge the apparent simplicity of something while implying that there is more to it than meets the eye. It suggests a deeper meaning or hidden complexity behind a seemingly easy concept.

What's the difference between "simple as it is" and "simple as it sounds"?

"Simple as it is" refers to the actual straightforward nature of something, even if there are hidden complexities. "Simple as it sounds" implies that something seems easy based on its description, but the reality might be different.