simply explain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simply explain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want someone to provide a straightforward and uncomplicated explanation of a topic or concept. Example: "Can you simply explain how this software works in layman's terms?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

You simply explain to children, that's all.

The Guardian - Opinion

Why don't the police simply explain to him that you aren't breaking any laws?

The New York Times

Officials asked Kerviel first to simply explain what he had been doing.

The New Yorker

"We have a certain need to simply explain what somebody does as totally irrational," Dr. Esposito said.

The New York Times

That she couldn't simply explain how I inadvertently entered a private development and instead chose to bully me was shocking.

The New York Times

The commission said that electronic communications are already public records and the ruling would simply explain how and why they would have to be made accessible.

The New York Times

Simply explain to your friends (and I would do this sooner rather than later) that, while you have always treasured ringing in the new year with them, this year you feel the need to do something different.

The New York Times

Every day, broadcasting live at noon, Dunseith declared "This is Talkback" before he probed the news agenda and gave a platform to those involved to express grief, anger or frustration or to simply explain themselves.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Or, finally, do these two pieces -- the first a merging of pastoral dreams and vigorous optimism, the second an acid celebration of urban noise -- simply explain in microcosm how fast and how drastically an old world became a new one?

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Gephardt said the new focus on securing the future would provide the framework to "plainly and simply explain to people all over the country where Democrats are coming from".

The New York Times

If you need to impose a restriction zone, for example around a fragile object, then simply explain why and direct visitors to where they can take a closer look at the detail (for example, online).

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "simply explain", ensure your explanation avoids jargon and technical terms. Aim for clarity and conciseness to make the information accessible to a broad audience.

Common error

Avoid adding unnecessary details or technical language when trying to "simply explain". Stick to the core concepts and use language that is easy for your audience to understand. Otherwise, you risk confusing them rather than clarifying.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simply explain" functions as a directive, urging someone to provide an uncomplicated and easily understandable explanation. Ludwig AI examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from clarifying complex topics to giving straightforward instructions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

28%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "simply explain" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that directs someone to provide a straightforward and easily understandable explanation. Ludwig AI confirms its versatility across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it appropriate for both formal and informal communication. When using "simply explain", prioritize clarity and conciseness to ensure effective communication and avoid unnecessary complexity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clearly explain

Emphasizes clarity in the explanation, focusing on making the information easily understandable.

plainly explain

Highlights the straightforward and uncomplicated nature of the explanation.

just explain

Suggests a direct and concise explanation, minimizing unnecessary details.

briefly explain

Focuses on the brevity and conciseness of the explanation, keeping it short and to the point.

simply state

Replaces the action of explaining with stating, focusing on a straightforward declaration.

easily explain

Highlights the ease with which the explanation can be understood or delivered.

directly explain

Emphasizes the lack of indirection or ambiguity in the explanation.

succinctly explain

Focuses on providing an explanation that is both clear and concise, avoiding unnecessary words.

in simple terms explain

Specifies that the explanation should be given using basic and easily understandable language.

layman's terms explain

Emphasizes the use of terminology understandable to someone without specialized knowledge.

FAQs

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

You can use "simply explain" to ask someone to provide a straightforward explanation. For example, "Could you "simply explain" the concept to me?"

What are some alternatives to "simply explain"?

Alternatives to "simply explain" include "clearly explain", "plainly explain", or "just explain".

What does it mean to "simply explain" something?

To "simply explain" something means to provide an explanation that is easy to understand, avoiding complex terminology or unnecessary details. It focuses on clarity and conciseness.

How does "simply explain" differ from "elaborate"?

"Simply explain" means to give a clear and uncomplicated explanation, while "elaborate" means to provide more details and expand on the explanation. They are opposite in their approach to explanation.