simple yes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simple yes" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate a straightforward or uncomplicated affirmation. Example: "When asked if I would attend the meeting, I gave a simple yes." Alternative expressions include "just yes" and "clear yes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Seems simple, yes?

The New York Times

The answer is simple: yes.

The Guardian - Sport

It's a simple yes or no.

The New York Times

And the answer is simple: yes.

The Guardian - Opinion

The answer is simple: yes, it was.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The answer is a simple yes".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

"We would ask simple yes-or-no questions and be charged $75," Mr. Mendez said.

The New York Times

"It's very complicated and goes beyond a simple yes-no question.

Los Angeles Times

Also, avoid simple yes-or-no answers.

WikiHow

Each variable was scored on a simple yes/no basis.

Applied Animal Behaviour Science

A simple yes/no answer will not work here.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simple yes" when you want to convey a clear and unambiguous agreement without additional details or explanations. This is especially effective in situations requiring brevity and directness.

Common error

Avoid using "simple yes" when the situation demands a more nuanced or detailed response. In complex discussions or negotiations, a simple affirmation might be perceived as dismissive or lacking in understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simple yes" functions as an adjective-noun phrase that expresses a straightforward and uncomplicated affirmation. Ludwig AI shows its use in various contexts to provide a clear and direct positive response.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

22%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simple yes" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to express a clear and uncomplicated affirmation. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. While its neutral register makes it widely applicable, it's essential to consider the context and audience to ensure its appropriateness. Avoid overusing it in situations demanding detailed responses, and consider alternative phrases like "straightforward affirmative" or "clear confirmation" for more formal settings. Therefore, use "simple yes" when clarity and brevity are paramount.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Straightforward affirmative

This alternative replaces the original words with direct synonyms, keeping the core meaning intact while sounding slightly more formal.

Uncomplicated agreement

This phrase swaps "simple" with "uncomplicated", emphasizing the lack of complexity in the agreement.

Clear confirmation

This alternative focuses on the clarity of the positive response, rather than its simplicity.

Direct affirmation

This choice stresses the directness of the positive response, making it sound resolute.

Plain positive response

The emphasis here is on the unadorned nature of the answer, highlighting its lack of elaboration.

Basic consent

This option underlines the fundamental agreement being expressed.

Easy acceptance

This alternative highlights the ease with which the agreement is given.

Bare assertion

This alternative presents the affirmation in its most fundamental form, stripped of any embellishment.

Simple assent

Here, "yes" is replaced with "assent", formalizing the agreement slightly.

Straight answer of yes

This phrase is more descriptive, specifying the type of answer given.

FAQs

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

You can use "simple yes" to indicate a straightforward and uncomplicated affirmation. For example: "When asked if I would help with the project, I gave a "simple yes"".

What can I say instead of "simple yes"?

You can use alternatives like "straightforward affirmative", "clear confirmation", or "direct affirmation" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "simple yes" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "simple yes" might be too informal for certain types of formal writing. Consider using more professional alternatives like "affirmative" or "consent" in those contexts.

When should I avoid using "simple yes"?

Avoid using "simple yes" when a more detailed explanation or commitment is expected. In situations requiring nuanced agreement, providing additional information is often necessary.