simply saying

USAGE SUMMARY

'simply saying' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that what you are about to say is an easy or straightforward explanation of a thought or idea. For example: "The economy is in a slump, simply saying, there isn't a lot of money to spend this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They thought they were simply saying "junk".

The New York Times

It's not always as easy as simply saying you're sorry.

University of California, Berkeley

Simply saying that you're transforming doesn't make it so.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

When you travel you are simply saying: "Show me.

The New York Times - Travel

A doctor dismissed another's complaint by simply saying, "I'm important".

The New York Times

I'm simply saying that saving is as individual as spending.

The New York Times

"Simply saying 'it's classified' is not enough," he said.

The New York Times

Simply saying that diversity matters won't change a thing.

Harvard Business Review

Simply saying child protection is important won't do.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

I'm simply saying the racists believe he's a racist".

Huffington Post

Pauly tweeted Radar's article, simply saying: "smh," online shorthand for "shaking my head".

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simply saying" to introduce a restatement or clarification of a complex idea in more accessible terms. This helps ensure your message is understood by a broader audience.

Common error

Avoid using "simply saying" excessively in formal or academic writing, as it can sometimes come across as condescending or oversimplifying complex issues. Consider using more nuanced phrasing to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simply saying" functions as a discourse marker or sentence adverbial, often used to introduce a restatement or simplification of a concept. Ludwig AI confirms that it is a common and acceptable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

21%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

15%

Science

12%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simply saying" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase used to introduce a straightforward explanation or restatement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is generally acceptable in written English. While common across diverse contexts like News & Media and Wiki, it's less prevalent in formal academic writing where more nuanced language may be preferred. When using "simply saying", consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing to ensure it aligns with your intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just stating

This alternative emphasizes the act of making a statement without additional complexity.

merely expressing

This alternative focuses on the act of conveying a thought or feeling in a basic way.

only pointing out

This alternative highlights the act of bringing something to someone's attention without further elaboration.

just to clarify

This alternative introduces a statement meant to make something more understandable.

in simpler terms

This alternative indicates that the following explanation will be easier to understand.

to put it plainly

This alternative suggests a straightforward and direct way of expressing something.

basically articulating

This alternative emphasizes expressing something in its most fundamental form.

in essence

This alternative highlights the most important or fundamental aspect of what is being said.

at its core

This alternative focuses on the central and most important element of a concept or idea.

to simplify

This alternative introduces a more straightforward and less complex version of an explanation.

FAQs

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

You can use "simply saying" to introduce a more straightforward explanation of something. For example, "The problem is complex, but, "simply saying", we need more resources."

What are some alternatives to "simply saying"?

Some alternatives to "simply saying" include phrases like "just stating", "in simpler terms", or "to put it plainly", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "simply saying" in formal writing?

While "simply saying" is grammatically correct, it may be perceived as too informal for certain academic or professional contexts. Consider using alternatives that maintain a more formal tone when necessary.

What's the difference between "simply saying" and "just saying"?

While both phrases are similar, "simply saying" often implies a simplification or clarification of a more complex issue, whereas "just saying" can sometimes be used to introduce a more casual or off-the-cuff remark.