simple

[[t]sɪ̱mp(ə)l[/t]]

♦♦

simpler, simplest

1) ADJ-GRADED If you describe something as simple, you mean that it is not complicated, and is therefore easy to understand.

...simple pictures and diagrams.

...pages of simple advice on filling in your tax form...

Buddhist ethics are simple but its practices are very complex to a western mind.

Syn:

uncomplicated, straightforward

Ant:

complicated

Derived words:

simply ADV-GRADED ADV with v

When applying for a visa extension state simply and clearly the reasons why you need an extension.

2) ADJ-GRADED If you describe people or things as simple, you mean that they have all the basic or necessary things they require, but nothing extra.

The Holy Family Church was closed and the parish now celebrates mass in this simple side chapel...

He ate a simple dinner of rice and beans.

...the simple pleasures of childhood...

He lives a very simple life for a man who has become incredibly rich...

Nothing is simpler than a cool white shirt.

Syn:

basic

Derived words:

simply ADV-GRADED ADV after v

The living room is furnished simply with white wicker furniture and blue-and-white fabrics...

He dressed simply and led a quiet family life.

3) ADJ-GRADED If a problem is simple or if its solution is simple, the problem can be solved easily.

Some puzzles look difficult but once the solution is known are actually quite simple...

The answer is simple...

I cut my purchases dramatically by the simple expedient of destroying my credit cards.

4) ADJ-GRADED: oft ADJ to-inf A simple task is easy to do.

The job itself had been simple enough...

The simplest way to install a shower is to fit one over the bath.

Syn:

easy

Derived words:

simply ADV-GRADED ADV with v

Simply dial the number and tell us your area.

5) ADJ-GRADED If you say that someone is simple, you mean that they are not very intelligent and have difficulty learning things.

He was simple as a child.

6) ADJ: ADJ n (emphasis) You use simple to emphasize that the thing you are referring to is the only important or relevant reason for something.

His refusal to talk was simple stubbornness.

Syn:

plain

7) ADJ In grammar, simple tenses are ones which are formed without an auxiliary verb `be', for example `I dressed and went for a walk' and `This tastes nice'. Simple verb groups are used especially to refer to completed actions, regular actions, and situations. Compare continuous.

8) ADJ In English grammar, a simple sentence consists of one main clause. Compare , complex.

9) → See also simply