simpler meaning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simpler meaning" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a more straightforward or easier interpretation of a concept or idea. Example: "The simpler meaning of the poem is about the passage of time and its effects on life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Unlike other Moba games, matches are shorter and the interface simpler, meaning players can easily pick it up.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

"It's a simple meaning," he said.

The New York Times

In either case it has a simple meaning.

The New Yorker

Levi is an artist in the simplest meaning of the word.

The Guardian - Music

BERMAN: I think that "advancing the liberal argument" has a simple meaning.

The New York Times

To me, education has a simple meaning: it's simply a key – a key that will open a bright future".

The Guardian

Mr. Miller took it as a signal to keep life in the country simple, meaning circuitry free.

The New York Times - Travel

Perhaps it is precisely because words are so susceptible to multiple readings that adherence to the plainest, simplest meaning is often our best recourse.

The New York Times - Books

The procedure is simple, meaning it could be performed at hundreds of labs around the world, rather than only a handful.

The Guardian

Elaborate engineering standards are used to assure that the traffic control devices convey a clear and simple meaning to the motorist.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They extended ideas about gist (simple meaning) and verbatim (precise risk-reward tradeoffs), both core aspects of the theory, to uncover neural correlates of risk-taking in adults.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, use "simpler meaning" to highlight a straightforward interpretation, especially when contrasting it with more complex or nuanced understandings.

Common error

While "simpler meaning" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal academic or professional writing. Opt for more precise alternatives like "more straightforward interpretation" or "less complex significance" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simpler meaning" functions as a noun phrase, where "simpler" modifies the noun "meaning". It describes a particular quality or characteristic of a meaning, indicating it is less complex or easier to understand. Ludwig provides examples where this phrase is used to clarify interpretations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simpler meaning" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a more straightforward or easily understood interpretation. As indicated by Ludwig, while the phrase is deemed correct and usable, it appears with moderate frequency across various sources like News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. When aiming for clarity, consider "simpler meaning" to emphasize a basic interpretation, but remain mindful of its potential overuse in highly formal contexts where alternatives like "more straightforward interpretation" might be more suitable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more straightforward interpretation

Replaces "simpler" with "more straightforward", emphasizing directness and clarity in the interpretation.

easier to understand meaning

Focuses on the ease of understanding, replacing "simpler" with "easier to understand".

less complex significance

Highlights the reduction in complexity of the meaning, using "less complex" to convey the same idea.

more accessible interpretation

Emphasizes the accessibility of the interpretation, suggesting it is easier to grasp.

plain meaning

Highlights the straightforwardness and clarity of the meaning, emphasizing the absence of hidden or obscure elements.

basic interpretation

Focuses on the fundamental or essential meaning, suggesting a reduction to the core elements.

simplified significance

Highlights the act of simplifying the meaning, suggesting a process of making it easier to understand.

uncomplicated interpretation

Replaces "simpler" with "uncomplicated", stressing the absence of complexity.

less intricate meaning

Focuses on reducing the intricacy of the meaning, suggesting a more streamlined and direct understanding.

streamlined interpretation

Emphasizes efficiency and directness in the interpretation, suggesting a removal of unnecessary elements.

FAQs

How can I use "simpler meaning" in a sentence?

You can use "simpler meaning" to indicate a more straightforward interpretation of a concept or idea. For example, "The "simpler meaning" of the poem is about the passage of time".

What's a good alternative to "simpler meaning"?

Alternatives include "more straightforward interpretation", "easier to understand meaning", or "plain meaning" depending on the context.

Is "simpler meaning" grammatically correct?

Yes, "simpler meaning" is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It is a valid phrase to describe a more basic or easily understood interpretation.

When should I use "simpler meaning" versus a more complex explanation?

Use "simpler meaning" when you want to convey the most basic or easily grasped interpretation of something. If you need to delve into nuances or complexities, a more detailed explanation is appropriate.