simply stupid

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simply stupid" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is straightforwardly foolish or lacking in intelligence. Example: "The idea of investing in that failing company is simply stupid."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Simply stupid.

Independent

It is simply stupid.

The New York Times

Some are simply stupid, others are bright, intelligent little fellows.

The New York Times

To declare war on terrorism is simply stupid.

The New York Times

"This speculation transcends the simply stupid and takes it to an entirely new level".

The New York Times

"Trolling"—posting wilfully inflammatory, off-topic or simply stupid remarks plagues blogs and other online forums.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

This was simply a stupid, badly-judged stunt.

Independent

And there are a million ideas that have never been hatched because they are simply too stupid or silly.

The New Yorker

Lessing dared to speak out when others were polite or discreet, or simply too stupid to see what was at stake.

The Guardian - Books

Assume that driverless cars could certainly reduce deaths by avoiding accidents caused by people who drive while intoxicated or who simply make stupid driving decisions, like driving on the wrong side of the road.

The New York Times

(The New Libertarianism! Burkean Revivalists!) But more and more, I think Gov. Bobby Jindal, Louisiana's Republican rising star, had it right when he said his party was in danger of becoming simply "the stupid party".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simply stupid" to express a clear and direct assessment of something as foolish, avoiding overly complex or euphemistic language when straightforwardness is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "simply stupid" in professional or academic writing where a more nuanced or diplomatic term might be more appropriate. Consider alternatives like "unwise" or "ill-advised".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simply stupid" functions as a subjective assessment, where "simply" intensifies the adjective "stupid", emphasizing the obvious nature of the lack of intelligence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. Examples in Ludwig illustrate it describes actions or ideas deemed foolish.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simply stupid" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe something as obviously foolish. While mainly found in news and media contexts, its informal tone makes it less suitable for formal writing. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. Alternatives like "utterly ridiculous" or "plain foolish" can be used for a similar effect. When using "simply stupid", ensure it aligns with the desired tone and audience, reserving it for situations where straightforward criticism is appropriate. The phrase is not meant to be subtle; it is a direct condemnation of an action or idea as being unintelligent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plain foolish

Uses a more straightforward adjective for "stupid", implying a lack of good sense.

utterly ridiculous

Replaces "stupid" with a more emphatic adjective, focusing on the absurdity of the action.

downright idiotic

Emphasizes the extreme lack of intelligence with a stronger, more critical term.

blatantly unintelligent

Directly states the lack of intelligence, making the phrase more formal.

patently absurd

Focuses on the obvious and undeniable nature of the foolishness.

clearly unwise

Substitutes "stupid" with a focus on the poor judgment involved.

remarkably senseless

Highlights the lack of reason or logic behind the action or idea.

incredibly thickheaded

Emphasizes the stubborn refusal to understand or learn.

foolishly naive

Implies a lack of experience or awareness contributing to the foolishness.

uncommonly dense

Replaces "stupid" with a less harsh term implying slowness in understanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "simply stupid" to describe actions, ideas, or decisions that are obviously foolish or unintelligent. For example, "Investing all your money in a single, unproven stock is "simply stupid"".

What are some alternatives to "simply stupid"?

You can use alternatives like "utterly ridiculous", "plain foolish", or "downright idiotic" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

While grammatically correct, "simply stupid" is generally considered informal and may not be suitable for academic or professional contexts. More formal alternatives such as "ill-advised" or "unwise" may be more appropriate.

What makes something "simply stupid" as opposed to just "stupid"?

The addition of "simply" emphasizes the obviousness or straightforwardness of the foolishness. It suggests that the action or idea is not just stupid, but clearly and undeniably so.