simply a list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simply a list" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is just a straightforward enumeration of items or points without any additional explanation or detail. Example: "The report was not comprehensive; it was simply a list of recommendations without any supporting analysis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Instead, Apple Podcasts is simply a list of links to podcasts hosted on independent servers around the world.

The Guardian - Tech

In the first, we have a set of items, each item with a given multiplicity; in the second, we have simply a list of items (each of which we may assume to have multiplicity 1).

European Journal of Operational Research

It's simply a list, constructed by me, of the sort of thing that's been uncool and untrendy and slightly embarrassing for 30 years.

The Guardian - Opinion

Manners are a mixture of common sense and kindness, she said, but etiquette is simply a list of rules to be learned.

The New York Times

Investigators have been trying to establish whether the list included people the group was actively plotting to kill, or was simply a list of high-profile political opponents.

The Guardian

An administration official said the document was simply a list of ideas that would be refined as the Sea Island summit meeting approaches, and especially after the Arab League summit talks, on May 22.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Like all the Healthy Israel 2020 Committees, we were tasked with not simply providing a list of interventions, but with providing a prioritized list of interventions.

Health Research Policy and Systems

The second, shorter version, asked simply for a list of named "champions" but no more additional information.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

But to do so, we do not simply make a list of fundamental particles.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

It simply provides a list of common color codes.

Harvard University

Repetitive structures often discourage careful reading — easy to simply skim a list like this.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simply a list" when you want to emphasize that something is a basic enumeration without any complex analysis or additional features. It's effective for downplaying expectations or clarifying the nature of the information presented.

Common error

Avoid using "simply a list" when the content is actually more complex or detailed than a basic enumeration. This can mislead your audience and undermine the perceived value of your work.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simply a list" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically used to characterize something as a basic enumeration of items, lacking complexity or additional information. Ludwig's examples show its use in various contexts, from describing podcast directories to net worth statements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simply a list" is a descriptive phrase used to characterize something as a basic enumeration of items without complex analysis or additional features. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. Its purpose is to convey straightforwardness and manage expectations. While suitable for neutral communication, consider more formal alternatives for sophisticated writing. The phrase's prevalence in News & Media and Science indicates its broad applicability, while its less frequent appearance in formal business suggests exercising caution in highly professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

merely a catalog

Replaces 'list' with 'catalog', suggesting a more organized collection but still basic.

just a rundown

Uses 'rundown' instead of 'list', implying a quick and concise summary.

only an inventory

Substitutes 'list' with 'inventory', emphasizing a comprehensive listing of items.

plainly a register

Replaces 'simply' with 'plainly' and 'list' with 'register', denoting a formal record.

barely an enumeration

Emphasizes the minimal nature of the list by using 'barely' and replaces 'list' with 'enumeration'.

fundamentally a directory

Uses 'directory' to suggest a list with some organizational structure.

essentially a compilation

Replaces 'list' with 'compilation', implying the items were gathered from different sources.

basically a record

Substitutes 'list' with 'record', which suggests something written or documented.

purely a schedule

Implies that list is time-oriented.

largely a summary

Replace 'list' with 'summary' suggesting a brief account of something.

FAQs

How can I use "simply a list" in a sentence?

You can use "simply a list" to describe something that is a basic compilation of items without additional complexity. For example, "The document was "simply a list" of names and contact information".

What are some alternatives to saying "simply a list"?

Alternatives include "merely a catalog", "just a rundown", or "only an inventory", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "simply a list" in formal writing?

While "simply a list" is generally acceptable, in more formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "fundamentally a directory" or "essentially a compilation" to maintain a higher level of formality.

What does it imply when something is described as "simply a list"?

Describing something as "simply a list" suggests that it lacks detailed analysis, explanation, or organization. It implies a straightforward presentation of items without deeper insights or connections.