to put it simply

USAGE SUMMARY

"to put it simply" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to simplify a complex concept by providing a brief and easy-to-understand explanation. For example, "The process of cloning a sheep involves many complex steps. To put it simply, a somatic cell from the animal is transferred to an egg cell with the nucleus removed, and then the egg cell is stimulated to begin development."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

To put it simply: Can Hadoop survive its weird beginning?

Forbes

To put it simply, no.

Independent

You are, to put it simply, screwed.

The New York Times

To put it simply, it didn't.

The Guardian

"To put it simply, you can't go.

The Washington Post

To put it simply: not much happens.

The Guardian - Books

"To put it simply – it's stupid.

The Guardian

To put it simply, these scenarios did not happen.

University of California, Berkeley

Sound Editing: To put it simply, sound effects; "American Sniper".

The New Yorker

To put it simply, it's what I want to drink.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Or, to put it simply we are all complicit.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to put it simply" to introduce a simplified explanation of a complex topic, ensuring your audience grasps the core idea without being bogged down by intricate details.

Common error

Avoid using "to put it simply" too frequently, as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using alternatives like "in simpler terms" or "basically" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to put it simply" functions as a discourse marker, specifically an introductory phrase. It signals to the audience that the speaker or writer is about to provide a simplified explanation of a potentially complex topic. This is confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to put it simply" is a versatile introductory phrase used to signal an upcoming simplification of a complex topic. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and highly prevalent, particularly in news and media contexts. While it effectively promotes clarity, writers should be mindful of overuse and consider synonymous expressions like "in simpler terms" or "simply put". Its neutral register and consistent function make it a valuable tool for clear and concise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simply put

Inverts the original phrase for a slightly different emphasis.

basically

Offers a fundamental explanation.

in simpler terms

Replaces "to put it simply" with a focus on using easier language.

in plain language

Emphasizes clarity and avoidance of jargon.

to break it down

Suggests simplifying a complex topic into smaller parts.

in a nutshell

Implies a very concise summary.

in short

Signals a brief summary.

in essence

Highlights the most important aspect of something.

to put it another way

Indicates a rephrasing for better understanding.

the bottom line is

Focuses on the essential point or outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "to put it simply" in a sentence?

"To put it simply" is typically used to introduce a straightforward explanation of a complex topic. For example, "The economic model is quite complex; to put it simply, it's about supply and demand."

What are some alternatives to "to put it simply"?

You can use alternatives like "in simpler terms", "simply put", or "basically" to convey the same meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "to put it simply"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "to put it simply". It functions as an introductory phrase that sets the stage for a simplified explanation.

What's the difference between "to put it simply" and "in other words"?

"To put it simply" is used to simplify a complex concept, while "in other words" is used to rephrase something for clarity, but not necessarily to simplify it. The former reduces complexity, the latter clarifies without necessarily reducing complexity.