simple

Everyday

1. Simple means easy to understand or do, not complicated. tree →
2. Simple means plain, without decoration or extra things. tree →
3. Simple can mean basic and made of few parts. tree →

In the lessons

In school, «simple» tasks are easy; «simple sentences» have one main clause; in maths, «simplify a fraction» means make it simpler (4/8 = 1/2), and simple machines (lever, pulley, wheel and axle, ramp) are basic tools in science. In everyday life, simple food or a simple dress is plain. In stories, «the simple life» is life without luxuries. Phrase: «It's as simple as that.»

Examples

• The instructions were simple to follow. tree →
• This is a simple sum: 2 + 3. tree →
• She wore a simple white dress. tree →
• A lever is a simple machine. tree →
• Write a simple sentence with one verb. tree →
• The simplest answer is often the right one. tree →
• Simplify the fraction 6/9 to 2/3. tree →
• But Mowgli’s plan was simple enough. tree →

Note

Comparative «simpler», superlative «simplest». Adverb «simply». Verb «simplify», noun «simplicity». In maths, «simplest form» of a fraction means you cannot divide top and bottom by the same number any more. «Simple» is not always «easy»: a simple idea can still take time.

In Jewish tradition

In Sefer Yetzirah, the "simple" letters are the twelve letters that are not mothers or doubles. In the Psalms and Proverbs, the simple are people who are plain, untaught or easily led, whom God protects and teaches.

Interpretation. Tradition links the twelve simple letters to the twelve months, twelve zodiac signs and twelve parts of the body. It reads the verses on the simple as showing that God's words give understanding even to those without learning.

Examples

• Three mothers, seven doubles and twelve simples. (Sefer Yetzirah, Westcott 1893) tree →
• In this case we have the simple form AL, EL. (Sefer Yetzirah, Westcott 1893) tree →
• Of these letters, three are mothers, seven are double, and twelve are simple. (Sefer Yetzirah, Westcott 1887) tree →
• The LORD preserveth the simple; I was brought low, and He saved me. (Writings PSA.116.6, JPS 1917) tree →
• The opening of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple. (Writings PSA.119.130, JPS 1917) tree →
• To give prudence to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion; (Writings PRO.1.4, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Comparative «simpler», superlative «simplest». Adverb «simply». Verb «simplify», noun «simplicity». In maths, «simplest form» of a fraction means you cannot divide top and bottom by the same number any more. «Simple» is not always «easy»: a simple idea can still take time.