simply
Americanadverb
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in a simple manner; clearly and easily.
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plainly; unaffectedly.
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sincerely; artlessly.
to speak simply as a child.
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merely; only.
It is simply a cold.
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unwisely; foolishly.
If you behave simply toward him, you're bound to be betrayed.
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wholly; absolutely.
simply irresistible.
adverb
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in a simple manner
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merely; only
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absolutely; altogether; really
a simply wonderful holiday
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(sentence modifier) frankly; candidly
Etymology
Origin of simply
First recorded in 1250–1300, simply is from the Middle English word simpleliche. See simple, -ly
Explanation
When you want something done in a straightforward and easy way without unnecessary complications, extras, or complexities, you want it done simply. The adverb simply comes from the word simple, meaning "clear, easy, or uncomplicated." A recipe written simply uses basic steps that are easy to follow, while a room simply decorated might have just a table and chairs without any extra decorations or unnecessary furniture. Simply can also be used in a way similar to the word only as in "I'm simply asking a question."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“It seems unlikely that industry rivals, consumer groups and antitrust authorities would simply go along with this,” said Stephen Trent, an independent aviation analyst.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 14, 2026
A third reason: Financial oil markets simply have a more balanced mix of buyers and sellers right now.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026
Beta simply grants Coltrane the autonomy to define her own experience, which shouldn’t be radical, and yet it is.
From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026
Instead, Rudakubana was simply taken back to his family home in Banks, West Lancashire, and no criminal action was taken.
From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026
"We will do what must be done," said Jonn simply.
From "Rowan of Rin" by Emily Rodda
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
