somewhat straightforward

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "somewhat straightforward" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is relatively easy to understand or accomplish, but may have some complexities. Example: "The instructions for assembling the furniture are somewhat straightforward, making it easier for beginners to follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The movement vocabulary was somewhat straightforward.

The New York Times - Arts

The lyrics seem like a somewhat straightforward, somewhat dark love song.

The New Yorker

Museo de Ejército, Alcazar military museum Now a somewhat straightforward museum devoted to military history (with an impressive collection of toy soldiers, among other artifacts) the Alcazar is the focal point of the Toledo skyline, the high point of the city that has been taken over by the Romans, Visigoths, Moors, Castillian kings, and now the Toledo tourist ministry.

The New York Times - Travel

4.2 is somewhat straightforward, validity of those in Sect.

Journal of Economic Structures

Decoding was somewhat straightforward when there were only two objects and two colors.

Cognitive Research: Principles and Implications

The first was somewhat straightforward as he stayed tall to flick substitute Lys Mousset's curling effort over the bar with his right hand.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Travel booking is obviously fairly straightforward, though I'm personally still somewhat skeptical that this is something frequent business fliers will want to use.

TechCrunch

This is somewhat at odds with comments from Reggie Fils-Aime "The problem for games developers working across all platforms is fairly straightforward – they're used to working to specific strengths and weaknesses on each console.

The Guardian - Tech

Pretty straightforward.

Yale University

Pretty straightforward, hopefully.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Fairly straightforward.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "somewhat straightforward", ensure that the context acknowledges the presence of some complexity, however minimal. This adds nuance and prevents oversimplification.

Common error

Avoid using "somewhat straightforward" to describe processes or concepts that are, in reality, highly intricate. This can mislead your audience and undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "somewhat straightforward" functions as an adverbial modifier of an adjective, softening or qualifying the adjective's meaning. It indicates that something is partially or to some extent straightforward, but not entirely so. Ludwig AI confirms that its correct usage is widespread.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Academia

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "somewhat straightforward" serves as a nuanced qualifier, suggesting a blend of simplicity and complexity. Ludwig AI confirms that its grammatical usage is valid, appearing across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. While not exceedingly common, it offers a middle ground for describing situations that aren't entirely simple nor overly complex. Its register is neutral, making it suitable for diverse written styles. When employing this phrase, aim for precision and context to convey the intended degree of clarity, or lack thereof, in your writing. Related alternatives include "relatively simple", "fairly uncomplicated", or "moderately easy".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relatively simple

Emphasizes the ease and lack of complexity involved, differing slightly in tone.

fairly uncomplicated

Highlights the absence of complications, presenting a slightly different perspective on ease.

moderately easy

Stresses the accessibility of something with a slight nuance.

reasonably direct

Focuses on the clarity and lack of ambiguity, altering the focus slightly.

kind of simple

Uses a more colloquial tone, suggesting a casual level of simplicity.

somewhat basic

Conveys a sense of fundamental or elementary nature, subtly different from straightforwardness.

comparatively clear

Highlights the lucidity relative to something else, shifting the emphasis.

quite elementary

Indicates something very basic and easy to understand, differing in intensity.

generally undemanding

Focuses on the lack of difficulty or effort required, changing the perspective.

largely accessible

Stresses the ease of access or understanding for a wide audience.

FAQs

How can I use "somewhat straightforward" in a sentence?

You can use "somewhat straightforward" to describe a task, explanation, or process that is relatively easy to understand or complete, but not entirely without complexity. For example: "The instructions were "somewhat straightforward", allowing us to assemble the furniture quickly."

What are some alternatives to "somewhat straightforward"?

Alternatives include "relatively simple", "fairly uncomplicated", or "moderately easy". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "somewhat straightforward" formal or informal?

"Somewhat straightforward" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal writing might benefit from a more precise alternative. See "relatively clear".

What's the difference between "somewhat straightforward" and "completely straightforward"?

"Somewhat straightforward" implies there might be minor complexities or ambiguities, while "completely straightforward" suggests there are no difficulties or complications whatsoever. Choose the phrase that accurately reflects the level of simplicity involved.