simply
SIHMP-lee
Simply (adv) means In a simple, plain, or uncomplicated way. Example: “The recipe is explained simply, so even beginners can follow it.”
adv
1
In a simple, plain, or uncomplicated way.
"The recipe is explained simply, so even beginners can follow it."
"He lives simply in a small cottage with very few possessions."
"She was dressed simply, in jeans and a t-shirt."
2
Used to mean "just" or "merely," emphasizing that nothing more is involved.
"You simply press the green button and wait for the light to change."
"I simply wanted to say thank you."
"It's simply a matter of time."
3
Used for emphasis, meaning "absolutely" or "completely."
"The cake was simply delicious, and everyone asked for a second slice."
"That story is simply impossible to believe."
"The view from the top was simply breathtaking."
How to use simply
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIn a simple manner, or just/merely, or (for emphasis) absolutely.
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more simply
- Superlative
- most simply
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The recipe is explained _____, so even beginners can follow it.
Etymology
This word came from Middle English symply, symplely; it is equivalent to simple + -ly, with *-lely simplified to -ly by haplology.
Related words
Rhymes for simply
See all rhymes for simply →Frequently asked questions
What does “simply” mean?
The word “simply” means in a simple, plain, or uncomplicated way. In plain terms, in a simple manner, or just/merely, or (for emphasis) absolutely.
How do you pronounce “simply”?
“Simply” is pronounced SIHMP-lee (/ˈsɪmpli/ in IPA).
How do you use “simply” in a sentence?
Here is “simply” used in a sentence: “She was dressed simply, in jeans and a t-shirt.”
What part of speech is “simply”?
“Simply” is an adverb.
Is “simply” a common word?
“Simply” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “simply” have?
“Simply” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in a simple, plain, or uncomplicated way.
What is the difference between simple and simply?
Simple is an adjective that describes a noun — a simple plan, a simple meal. Simply is an adverb that describes how an action is done — she explained it simply, he lives simply. If you are describing a thing, use simple; if you are describing the manner of an action, use simply.
How do you use 'simply' in a sentence?
Use it to show that something is done in a plain, clear or uncomplicated way: 'She dressed simply,' 'He explained the rules simply so everyone understood,' or 'They live simply, with few possessions.' In each case, simply describes the manner — plainly and without fuss.
Is 'simply' an adverb?
Yes. Simply is the adverb formed from the adjective simple, and it describes how something is done — in a plain, clear or uncomplicated way. In casual English it also works as an intensifier meaning 'absolutely' or 'merely,' as in 'simply wonderful' or 'simply forgot.'
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