that was simple

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that was simple" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something was easy to understand or accomplish after it has been completed. Example: "After reviewing the instructions, I realized that was simple and I could complete the task quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

As to his claim to fame, that was simple fate, he added.

The Guardian

I tried to explain, while complimenting her on a meal that was simple and simply delicious.

The New York Times - Travel

"My request to Joel was for a boat that was simple and elegant," Tofias said.

The New York Times - Sports

"We tested an intervention that was simple and scalable," Dr. Choudhry said.

The New York Times

I wanted a house that was simple and cheery and unlike the gray English weather.

The New York Times

"They're a symbol for everything that was simple and straightforward in the good old days," she says.

The Guardian - Arts

It used marketing and language that was simple and inclusive and followed through by offering a low-cost alternative.

The Guardian

I wanted to do a project that could connect people and countries, that was simple and universal.

The Guardian

Both lunch and dinner began with buttered and grilled bread slices, a gratis treat that was simple and different.

The New York Times

The Wii rescued gaming from being in a perpetual niche by introducing a controller that was simple to use.

The New York Times - Tech

They set about making a version of VistA that was simple for health care providers to use, and the fruit of their effort is now ready for market.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "that was simple" when you want to express that a task, concept, or explanation was easy to understand or complete after it has been addressed. It often implies a sense of relief or satisfaction.

Common error

While "that was simple" is widely understood, it can sound too informal in certain professional or academic settings. Opt for alternatives like "it was straightforward" or "it was easily accomplished" to maintain a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that was simple" functions as a declarative statement expressing the perceived ease or lack of complexity of a prior action, event, or understanding. As Ludwig indicates, it's a straightforward way to communicate that something was not difficult.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

22%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "that was simple" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that something was easy or straightforward, as Ludwig confirms. While its neutral to informal tone makes it appropriate for everyday conversation and news reporting, it might be too casual for formal writing. The phrase sees frequent use across News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, and while other options like "it was easy" or "it was straightforward" can often be used interchangeably, choosing the right synonym can fine-tune the message and match your writing style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was straightforward

Emphasizes the directness and lack of complications in the process or situation.

it was easy

Highlights the lack of difficulty involved.

it was undemanding

Stresses the minimal effort or resources required.

it was a breeze

Suggests that something was accomplished effortlessly and quickly.

it was elementary

Implies that something is fundamental or easily understood.

it was no problem

Indicates that a task or situation was handled without any issues.

it was a piece of cake

Suggests that a task was very easy to complete.

it was child's play

Implies that a task is so easy that even a child could do it.

it was a snap

Indicates that something was done quickly and easily.

it was effortless

Emphasizes the lack of exertion required.

FAQs

How can I use "that was simple" in a sentence?

You can use "that was simple" to indicate that a task, explanation, or solution was easy to understand or execute. For instance, "After reviewing the manual, I realized "that was simple" and I could assemble the furniture quickly."

What are some alternatives to "that was simple"?

Some alternatives include "it was easy", "it was straightforward", or "it was undemanding" depending on the context.

Is "that was simple" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "that was simple" might be considered too informal for academic or professional writing. Consider using more formal alternatives such as "it was easily accomplished" or "it presented no difficulty".

What's the difference between "that was simple" and "that was easy"?

While similar, "that was simple" often implies that something was straightforward and uncomplicated, whereas "that was easy" emphasizes the lack of effort required. For example, a complex math problem solved with a simple formula could be described as ""that was simple"", while tying your shoes is "that was easy".