simply

adverb

sim·​ply ˈsim-plē How to pronounce simply (audio)
 for sense 1 also  -pə-lē
1
a
: without ambiguity : clearly
b
: without embellishment : plainly
2
a
: solely, merely
eats simply to keep alive
simply cleaned it up and went to bedGarrison Keillor
b
: really, literally
the concert was simply marvelous
often used as an intensive
simply crawling with geniusesF. Scott Fitzgerald

Examples of simply in a Sentence

Simply add water to the mix and stir. Simply click on the computer icon and follow the directions. If he continues to bother you, simply ignore him. You can order new checks simply by calling or going online. It is simply a matter of time before something goes wrong. The instructions are simply written. He lived simply on the farm. The diner is called simply “Joe's.” “Sorry, I can't help you,” he said simply. The problem, put simply, is money.
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.
There’s a faith that’s gained simply through moving among one’s friends. Merve Emre, New Yorker, 17 June 2025 This draw reflects the evolution of the tournament, which is no longer simply a coronation of European and South American champions but a genuine clash of footballing cultures from around the globe. Sindiswa Mabunda, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025 Starting with Game 5 of last year’s National League Division Series and including two losses last week, the Padres simply cannot solve Dodgers’ relief pitching. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 June 2025 But this project and others like it are not simply neighborhood-level matters to be settled by the loudest voices in a community meeting. Chicago Tribune, 17 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for simply

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1b

Time Traveler
The first known use of simply was in the 14th century

Cite this Entry

“Simply.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simply. Accessed 23 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

simply

adverb
sim·​ply ˈsim-plē How to pronounce simply (audio)
1
a
: in a clear manner
stated the directions simply
b
: in a plain manner
simply dressed
c
: in a direct manner : candidly
told the story as simply as a child would
2
a
: for nothing more than
eats simply to keep alive
b
: without any question : truly
simply marvelous

More from Merriam-Webster on simply

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