simply

[ sim-plee ]

adverb

1. in a simple manner; clearly and easily.
2. plainly; unaffectedly.
3. sincerely; artlessly:

   to speak simply as a child.

4. merely; only:

   It is simply a cold.

5. unwisely; foolishly:

   If you behave simply toward him, you're bound to be betrayed.

6. wholly; absolutely:

   simply irresistible.

simply

/ ˈsɪmplɪ /

adverb

1. in a simple manner
2. merely; only
3. absolutely; altogether; really

   a simply wonderful holiday

4. sentence modifier frankly; candidly

Word History and Origins

Origin of simply¹

First recorded in 1250–1300, simply is from the Middle English word simpleliche. See simple, -ly

Example Sentences

For science to be effective, it simply cannot be efficient.

From Slate

Universities that traditionally required higher entry grades have fared better, because they have simply taken a bigger share by accepting some students with lower results.

From BBC

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, charged that Gaetz is simply “not a serious candidate.”

From Salon

“I am simply defending my country from cultural and ethnic replacement brought on by an invasion.”

From Salon

Liberal Democrat MP Lee Dillon said his party was "deeply concerned that people are simply paying more council tax for fewer services".

From BBC

Related Words

• commonly
• directly
• easily
• honestly
• naturally
• openly
• quietly