simplify

Everyday

1. To simplify something is to make it simpler or easier to understand or do. tree →
2. (maths) To simplify a fraction is to write it with smaller numbers that mean the same amount, by dividing the top and bottom by the same number. tree →
3. (maths) To simplify an expression is to write it in a shorter way, for example by collecting like terms. tree →

In the lessons

In maths lessons it is a common instruction: «Simplify 6/8» means write it as 3/4. In algebra «simplify 2a + 3a» means 5a. In everyday life and writing it means removing extra details so something is clearer. Phrases: simplify a fraction, simplify fully, simplify the rules, in its simplest form.

Examples

• Can you simplify the instructions for the little ones? tree →
• Simplify 10/15 by dividing both numbers by 5 to get 2/3. tree →
• Simplify 3x + 4x to get 7x. tree →
• The new app simplifies homework by putting it all in one place. tree →
• We simplified the game so everyone could play. tree →
• Always simplify your answer fully. tree →
• The teacher simplified the story for the younger class. tree →

Note

Spelling: simplify, simplifies, simplified, simplifying (keep y before -ing). The noun is simplification. In maths, simplifying never changes the value: 4/8 and 1/2 are equal. «Simplify fully» means you cannot divide top and bottom by anything else (except 1).