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adj Common

simpler

SIHM-puhl-uh

Simpler (adj) means Comparative form of simple: easier, plainer, or less complicated. Example: “There's a simpler way to solve this equation.”

adj
1
Comparative form of simple: easier, plainer, or less complicated.
"There's a simpler way to solve this equation."
"Life was simpler before smartphones."

How to use simpler

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishMore simple — used when comparing two things.

Word forms

simplers plural, Simplers plural

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Test yourself on “simpler” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

There's a _____ way to solve this equation.

Etymology

Probably an altered form of German Simperl or Semperl.

Origin: German

plainer easier

Related words

Frequently asked questions

What does “simpler” mean?

The word “simpler” means comparative form of simple: easier, plainer, or less complicated. In plain terms, more simple — used when comparing two things.

How do you pronounce “simpler”?

“Simpler” is pronounced SIHM-puhl-uh (/ˈsɪm.pəl.ɚ/ in IPA).

How do you use “simpler” in a sentence?

Here is “simpler” used in a sentence: “There's a simpler way to solve this equation.”

What part of speech is “simpler”?

“Simpler” is an adjective.

Is “simpler” a common word?

“Simpler” is a fairly common word in modern English.

What is the difference between "simpler" and "more simple"?

"Simpler" is the standard comparative form of "simple," formed by adding "-er" since "simple" is a short adjective. "More simple" is used less often but is not strictly incorrect; "simpler" is generally preferred in both speech and writing.

When should you use "simpler" instead of "simplest"?

Use "simpler" when comparing exactly two things, as in "this method is simpler than that one," and use "simplest" when comparing three or more things to identify the one with the least complexity.

Is "simpler" always used to compare two options?

Typically yes, "simpler" as a comparative adjective is used to show that one thing is easier, plainer, or less complicated than another specific thing, rather than ranking it among many options.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial · etymology from Wiktionary