simply to clarify

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simply to clarify" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain something in a straightforward manner or to make a point clearer. Example: "I want to address the confusion regarding the deadline, simply to clarify that it has been moved to next Friday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The Europeans say they do not want to change the WTO's environmental rules, but simply to clarify them.

The Economist

Yet the experiment could also be useful as a demonstration of technology, he said, or simply to clarify the scale of what is needed, "on densely populated islands like the British Isles".

The New York Times

A more modest but useful goal would be simply to clarify the factors that determine which court hears a divorce, and then let that court apply its own law.

The Economist

Instead, he again and again asked President Obama and former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney simply to clarify their differences — a civic-minded sort of request, but about as far from Ted Koppel's biting inquiry in the heyday of "Nightline" as it was possible for a moderator to move in such an important forum.

The New Yorker

The main point behind distinguishing levels here is simply to clarify that the fundamental moral level is separate from other levels at which the question can be considered and also more basic than them.

SEP

"The language on the ballot is simply to clarify so that everybody will understand and it won't require costly litigation because people feel they are getting mixed signals," Jenkins said.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Just to clarify things.

The Guardian - Books

And just to clarify!

Vice

But to clarify.

Huffington Post

Just to clarify.

Huffington Post

Oh, and just to clarify.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simply to clarify" when you want to introduce an explanation that makes a point easier to understand without adding unnecessary complexity.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "simply to clarify". Vary your sentence structure to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simply to clarify" functions as an introductory phrase or discourse marker. It signals the speaker or writer's intention to provide an explanation, often to reduce confusion or offer a clearer understanding. Examples from Ludwig show it being used in academic, news, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

37%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "simply to clarify" serves as a useful introductory phrase to signal an intent to provide a clear and uncomplicated explanation. While it's considered grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, as confirmed by Ludwig, it's important to avoid overuse and consider alternative phrases to maintain writing style diversity. It appears more frequently in News & Media and Science sources. Therefore, use it judiciously to enhance clarity without sacrificing writing quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just to clarify

Adds a touch of informality or immediacy compared to "simply to clarify".

merely to clarify

Emphasizes the limited scope or purpose of the clarification.

only to clarify

Highlights that the sole purpose is clarification.

to make it clear

Shifts the focus to the resulting clarity.

for the sake of clarity

Indicates that clarity is the primary concern.

to avoid confusion

Focuses on preventing misunderstanding.

to be precise

Emphasizes accuracy and detail in the explanation.

in other words

Signals a restatement or simplification of a previous statement.

to put it simply

Highlights that the explanation will be straightforward.

let me rephrase that

Indicates a correction or improvement of a previous statement.

FAQs

What does "simply to clarify" mean?

The phrase "simply to clarify" means to explain something in a straightforward and uncomplicated manner, with the primary goal of making it easier to understand.

How can I use "simply to clarify" in a sentence?

You can use "simply to clarify" to introduce an explanation or restatement that aims to remove any potential ambiguity or confusion. For example, "I'm adding this note, "simply to clarify" that all submissions must be in by Friday."

What are some alternatives to "simply to clarify"?

Some alternatives include "just to clarify", "merely to clarify", or "to make it clear". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to say "simply to clarify"?

While "simply" and "to clarify" can sometimes be used independently, combining them emphasizes the straightforward nature of the explanation. It's not inherently redundant, but consider whether the "simply" adds meaningful emphasis or if it can be omitted for conciseness.