simplify

[ sim-pluh-fahy ]

verb (used with object)

, sim·pli·fied, sim·pli·fy·ing.

1. to make less complex or complicated; make plainer or easier:

   to simplify a problem.

simplify

/ ˈsɪmplɪˌfaɪ /

verb

1. to make less complicated, clearer, or easier
2. maths to reduce (an equation, fraction, etc) to a simpler form by cancellation of common factors, regrouping of terms in the same variable, etc

Derived Forms

• ˈsimplificative, adjective
• ˌsimplifiˈcation, noun
• ˈsimpliˌfier, noun

Other Words From

• simpli·fi·cation noun
• simpli·fi·cative adjective
• simpli·fier simpli·fi·cator noun
• nonsim·pli·fi·cation noun
• super·simpli·fy verb (used with object) supersimplified supersimplifying
• un·simpli·fied adjective
• un·simpli·fying adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of simplify¹

First recorded in 1645–55; from French simplifier, from Medieval Latin simplificāre “to make simple,” equivalent to Latin simpli-, combining form of simplus simple + -ficāre -fy

Word History and Origins

Origin of simplify¹

C17: via French from Medieval Latin simplificāre, from Latin simplus simple + facere to make

Example Sentences

The retailer said the move, which would affect less than 10% of its total number of staff, would enable it to "simplify structures" amid a challenging market.

From BBC

"As part of this process, we are redefining roles and accountabilities to remove duplication and simplify structures," he said.

From BBC

“I just find ways to make the game easier for our younger guys, try to simplify it, help them think less, help them be in a position where they can be the best in,” Russel said.

From Los Angeles Times

"While this decision was made prior to Brian Niccol taking the role of CEO, the decision to remove the beverages aligns with his strategy to simplify our menu," a Starbucks spokesperson told the BBC.

From BBC

Last week, he promised to simplify what he described as an "overly complex menu".

From BBC

Related Words

• clarify
• cut down
• facilitate
• reduce
• shorten
• streamline