oversimplify

verb

over·​sim·​pli·​fy ˌō-vər-ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce oversimplify (audio)
oversimplified; oversimplifying; oversimplifies

transitive verb

: to simplify to such an extent as to bring about distortion, misunderstanding, or error

intransitive verb

: to engage in undue or extreme simplification
oversimplification noun

Examples of oversimplify in a Sentence

The article oversimplifies the problem. She tends to oversimplify things. We must resist the temptation to oversimplify.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At the risk of oversimplifying: Everything on TV is shot from some distance, but typically, microphones are placed on or directly around those speaking. Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 6 Feb. 2025 Trump has long oversimplified the dizzyingly complex realities of water distribution in California, and once again this week appeared to suggest that the Southland’s troubles would be solved by an infusion of water from other parts of the state. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 10 Jan. 2025 Trump's remarks, which link water policy to wildfire mitigation, spotlight these issues but also draw scrutiny for oversimplifying their complexities. Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 24 Jan. 2025 While critics argue this portrayal oversimplifies the complexity that is technology and culture, there is no denying something has gone terribly wrong for adolescents since the early 2010s. Gemma Allen, Forbes, 13 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for oversimplify 

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of oversimplify was in 1897

Dictionary Entries Near oversimplify

Cite this Entry

“Oversimplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oversimplify. Accessed 16 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

oversimplify

verb
over·​sim·​pli·​fy ˌō-vər-ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce oversimplify (audio)
: to simplify something so much that the result is confusing, misleading, or wrong
oversimplification noun

More from Merriam-Webster on oversimplify

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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