simplicity

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "simplicity" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is simple, uncomplicated, or straightforward. For example: "I appreciate the simplicity of this task."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Written by Goffin with Phil Spector protege Russ Titelman, it was direct ("He holds me when I'm crying to show me it's alright"), simplicity itself and sung tearfully by the Cookies Margaret Rosss.

The Guardian - Music

Her office that day released a statement saying she "wanted the simplicity of using one device".

The Guardian

"It presented to me this notion of simplicity, order, relation with the natural environment … Canberra has been growing with this kind of principle all the time".

The Guardian

This is the time-lapse study of a child's growth to adulthood, filmed for a fortnight or so annually for 12 years: an artwork of inspired simplicity and organic consistency, infused with pure generosity and love, and easily capable of riding out the backlash-lifecycle that always attends much-fancied films like this.

The Guardian - Film

Timothy Dolan, the larger-than-life archbishop of New York, praised the new pope's "beautiful sincerity and simplicity and humility".

The Guardian

She cooks in the spirit of simplicity and goodness, gathering her ingredients from local markets.

The Guardian - Travel

Supported by the Guardian, the campaign's primary goal was, and still is, to get people, organisations, companies and even governments to pledge to reduce their carbon emissions by 10% by the end of 2010 – an intentionally straightforward gesture, both in its simplicity and achievability.

The Guardian

Hardly innovative, but after a morning of brocaded gowns and Mr Trump, a bit of simplicity made a welcome end to the day.

The Guardian

Not only had circumstances destroyed the simplicity of "no listening inside", not only had fudging with the foreign intelligence surveillance act carried them where law no longer provided useful landmarks, but they actually wanted to do it.

The Guardian - Tech

And those who staid in bloody scuffle Knew not the great simplicity.

The Guardian - Books

The final reference to the "great simplicity" is intriguing.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity in your writing, prioritize "simplicity" in sentence structure and word choice to ensure your message is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "simplicity" when describing concepts that are inherently complex, as this can mislead your audience and oversimplify crucial details.

Linguistic Context

The word "simplicity" primarily functions as a noun, denoting the quality or state of being simple, unmixed, or uncomplicated. Ludwig confirms that "simplicity" describes a lack of complexity or artifice, as shown in the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simplicity" is a versatile noun used to describe the state of being uncomplicated or straightforward. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and wide application across various contexts—from news and media to science and formal writing—highlight its importance in effective communication. While synonyms like "straightforwardness" and "clarity" exist, "simplicity" specifically emphasizes the absence of unnecessary complexity. When using this term, ensure that your context aligns with its positive connotations, avoiding oversimplification when detail is crucial.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of complexity

This alternative emphasizes the absence of complicated features.

uncomplicated nature

This alternative simply rephrases the concept using different words.

ease of understanding

This focuses on how easily something can be comprehended.

straightforwardness

This suggests a direct and uncomplicated approach.

streamlined approach

This suggests efficiency and directness in method.

absence of artifice

This highlights the lack of artificial or contrived elements.

plainness

This denotes a lack of ornamentation or embellishment.

lack of sophistication

This points out the absence of complexity or refinement.

basic nature

This describes something fundamental and without added elements.

essentiality

This focuses on the core, indispensable aspects of something.

FAQs

How can I use "simplicity" in a sentence?

"Simplicity" can be used to describe the state of being uncomplicated or straightforward, such as, "The beauty of the design lies in its simplicity."

What are some synonyms for "simplicity"?

Alternatives to "simplicity" include "ease of use", "straightforwardness", and "clarity", depending on the specific context.

Is "simplicity" always a positive attribute?

While often positive, "simplicity" can be a drawback if it leads to oversimplification or a lack of necessary detail. The context determines its value.

What is the difference between "simplicity" and "simplification"?

"Simplicity" is the state of being simple or uncomplicated, whereas "simplification" is the act of making something simpler.