simply

adverb

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

Synonyms of simply

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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.
But for the rest of the year, Rice simply lived there, working in an office off an 800-square-foot primary suite and taking dips in the pool or the ocean outside his door. — Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 28 Aug. 2026 The patio gives regulars another place to gather, Lange said, to watch a game, eat dinner or simply settle in for a few hours — which, at Angry Ale’s, is often the point. — Evan Moore august 28, Charlotte Observer, 28 Aug. 2026 Whether you’re influenced by decades ago or simply want products that last—and enhance your skin in the process—we’ve curated an edit of the best NARS makeup formulas of 2026 for your reading and shopping pleasure. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 28 Aug. 2026 One episode explores several years in the life of a random Jason variant who simply tries to build a life for himself in a quiet world. — Andrew Webster, The Verge, 28 Aug. 2026 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

Phrases Containing simply

Rhymes for simply

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Browse Nearby Words

Simplon Tunnel
simply
simply connected
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Cite this Entry

“Simply.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/simply. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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