Simplicity
sɪmˈplɪsəti
Definitions
2 meaningsThe state or quality of being simple; freedom from complexity, intricacy, or involvement.
sɪmˈplɪsəti
The quality or condition of being simple.
The beauty of the poem lies in its simplicity.
💡 Simply: Imagine a puzzle that has very few pieces, or a recipe with only three ingredients. Simplicity is when things are straightforward and easy to do or understand. For example: 'The beauty of the website is in its simplicity - anyone can use it!'
👶 For kids: When something is not complicated and easy to understand or do.
More Examples
She appreciated the simplicity of his explanation.
The software's interface was praised for its simplicity.
How It's Used
"The simplicity of the design made it easy to understand."
"The app's simplicity is one of its biggest selling points."
The absence of unnecessary adornment, luxury, or extravagance.
sɪmˈplɪsəti
Lack of luxury or embellishment; plainness.
They found happiness in the simplicity of rural life.
💡 Simply: Imagine living with only what you truly need, without extra decorations or fancy things. Simplicity in this case means living with less stuff, and focusing on the essentials. For example: 'They found joy in the simplicity of their cabin life.'
👶 For kids: When something is not fancy or has only a few things.
More Examples
The minimalist decor emphasized the simplicity of the space.
He admired the simplicity of the monks' lifestyle.
How It's Used
"They embraced a life of simplicity, focusing on experiences rather than possessions."
"The simplicity of the artist's style was refreshing."
Idioms & expressions
for simplicity's sake
In order to make something easier to understand or do; to avoid unnecessary complexity.
"For simplicity's sake, let's just use the same formula for all the calculations."
simple living
A lifestyle characterized by a focus on experiences rather than material possessions, often involving voluntary simplicity and reduction of consumption.
"They adopted a simple living philosophy, focusing on experiences rather than acquiring wealth."
From Old French *simplicité* (12th century), from Latin *simplicitas* 'singleness, plainness', from *simplex* 'simple'.
Used in the 15th and 16th centuries to mean innocence or purity, a sense that persists in some contexts.
Memory tip
Think of a SIM card - it's SIMPLE to use, highlighting Simplicity.
Word Origin
"singleness, plainness"