simplify

[sim-pluh-fahy]

verb (used with object)

simplified, simplifying 

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

Other Word Forms

• simplificative adjective
• simplification noun
• simplifier noun
• simplificator noun
• nonsimplification noun
• supersimplify verb (used with object)
• unsimplified adjective
• unsimplifying 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

It said it would also simplify access to tax records.

From BBC

It comes after the coffee chain announced in February it was axing 1,100 jobs and simplifying its US menu to help flagging sales in its home market.

From BBC

It apologised to those affected, saying it had introduced Visual Disruption Maps - videos to help passengers navigate service changes - and was raising awareness of the Delay Repay scheme to simplify compensation.

From BBC

"This government has taken unprecedented steps to get this done, navigating a needlessly complex planning system, which our reforms will simplify in future," the government source said.

From BBC

His insight doesn’t come from trying to explain or simplify complex experiences but from allowing them to be as layered and contradictory as they truly are.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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