to be simpler

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be simpler" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the desire for something to be less complex or easier to understand. Example: "I believe the instructions need to be simpler for everyone to follow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It used to be simpler.

The New Yorker

I want things to be simpler.

The New York Times

THINGS used to be simpler in America.

The New York Times

Dezhurnaya duty used to be simpler.

The New York Times

But running is meant to be simpler, isn't it?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Stories used to be simpler: this, then that".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But the latter turns out to be simpler.

The New York Times

They should have had the courage to be simpler.

The Guardian

The acknowledgment needs to be simpler, less legalistic, less hypocritical.

The New Yorker

Everyday wines tend to be simpler, though nonetheless satisfying.

The New York Times - Food

The watchdogs also want banks to be simpler.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, use "to be simpler" to advocate for streamlined processes, designs, or explanations in technical or complex contexts.

Common error

While "to be simpler" is versatile, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations where more colloquial alternatives like "easier" or "less complicated" might sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be simpler" typically functions as an infinitive phrase, often serving as a complement to a verb or adjective. It expresses a desire or need for a reduced level of complexity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

21%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be simpler" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that advocates for reduced complexity and increased ease. Ludwig AI confirms this. It is versatile across various contexts, including news, science, and academia, although it's most prevalent in news and media. When using the phrase, remember to consider whether a more straightforward alternative might better suit the situation and audience, especially in informal settings. While aiming for simplicity is often beneficial, ensure it doesn't sacrifice necessary detail or accuracy. High-quality sources frequently employ this expression, attesting to its reliability and broad acceptance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to become less complex

Focuses on the process of reducing complexity.

to be more straightforward

Emphasizes directness and clarity.

to be more user-friendly

Highlights ease of use and accessibility.

to be less intricate

Focuses on reducing the level of detail.

to be easier to use

Highlights the ease with which something can be utilized.

to be more accessible

Emphasizes the ease of obtaining or reaching something.

to be streamlined

Focuses on efficiency and simplicity in design or process.

to be more manageable

Highlights the ease of controlling or dealing with something.

to be more intuitive

Emphasizes ease of understanding and use without explicit instruction.

to be uncomplicated

Directly states the absence of complexity.

FAQs

How can I use "to be simpler" in a sentence?

You can use "to be simpler" when suggesting a reduction in complexity. For example: "The instructions need "to be simpler" for everyone to understand".

What phrases are similar to "to be simpler"?

Alternatives include "to be more straightforward", "to be less complex", or "to be easier to use" depending on the specific context.

Is it always better for things "to be simpler"?

While simplicity is often desirable, sometimes complexity is necessary to accurately represent a subject or accomplish a task. The goal is finding the right balance between simplicity and accuracy.

How does "to be simpler" compare to "to simplify"?

"To be simpler" describes a desired state, while "to simplify" ("to simplify") is an action indicating the process of making something simpler. For example: "The goal is for the process to be simpler" versus "We need to simplify the process".