simple
/ˈsɪmpəl/
adjective
simpler;
simplest
simpler;
simplest
Britannica Dictionary definition of SIMPLE
[or more simple; most simple]
1
:
not hard to understand or do
-
a simple task
-
The solution to the problem was relatively simple.
-
The answer is really quite simple.
-
a simple [=straightforward] explanation
-
a simple recipe
-
There are three simple steps/rules to follow.
-
The camera is simple to use.
-
The directions seem simple enough. [=seem fairly simple]
-
Just press the button. It is as simple as that. = Just press the button. It is that simple.
-
Don't go into too much detail in the report. Just keep it simple and to the point.
2
:
having few parts
:
not complex or fancy
-
The engine has a simple [=basic] design.
-
a simple machine
-
The melody is very simple.
-
She wore a simple [=plain, unadorned] black dress.
-
We don't want to spend a lot of money on the party, so we're keeping it simple. [=we're not having an extravagant party]
3
always used before a noun
:
not special or unusual
:
ordinary
-
simple folks
-
I'm a simple farmer just trying to make a living.
-
He enjoys the simple pleasure of spending time with his wife and kids after work.
-
Relaxing on the beach and watching the sunset is one of life's simple pleasures.
4
always used before a noun
:
complete and total
—
used for emphasis
-
I watch what I eat, but the simple truth is that I can't resist chocolate.
-
The simple fact is that he did not study for the exam.
-
I don't want to go for the simple reason that [=because] I'm very tired.
5
grammar, of a sentence
:
having only one main clause and no additional clauses
6
old-fashioned
:
not very intelligent
pure and simple
—
see pure
the simple life
◊ If you live the simple life, you do not own many things or use many modern machines and you usually live in the countryside.