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Simplicity: Definition, Usage & Examples Explained (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：ease or straightforwardness (simplicity)
simplicity
/sɪmˈplɪsəti/
n.
The quality of being easy to understand or do; not complicated.
ease or straightforwardness
➕
/ˈiːz ɔːr ˌstreɪtˈfɔːrwərdnəs/
n.
Refers to the state or quality of being not complex or difficult to comprehend, making something easy to grasp or perform.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'simplicitas', from 'simplex' (simple) + '-itas' (noun suffix).
💡 Mnemonic
Think of 'simple' + 'city'. A city designed simply is easy to navigate.
📖 Example
I love the simplicity of this app; I learned how to use it in just five minutes!
I greatly admire the straightforwardness of this app; I mastered its use within only five minutes!
🔗 Collocations
simplicity of design – the quality of a design being uncomplicated and clear
simplicity of use – how easy something is to operate or interact with
simplicity of operation – the ease with which a machine or system can be run
🔄 Synonyms
clarity (n.) – the quality of being clear and easy to understand
straightforwardness (n.) – the quality of being uncomplicated and easy to do or understand
easiness (n.) – the quality of involving little effort or difficulty
🚫 Antonyms
complexity (n.) – the state of having many interconnected parts; being intricate
complication (n.) – a factor or circumstance that makes something more difficult
difficulty (n.) – the state of being hard to accomplish or understand
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from Latin 'simplicitas', linked to 'simplex' (single, simple), ultimately from 'semel' (once) and 'plicare' (to fold). In modern culture, it's a core principle in design and technology, championed by figures like Steve Jobs, where 'simplicity is the ultimate sophistication'.
Meaning 2：plainness or minimalism (simplicity)
simplicity
/sɪmˈplɪsəti/
n.
The quality of being plain, natural, or not decorated too much.
plainness or minimalism
➕
/ˈpleɪnnəs ɔːr ˈmɪnɪməlɪzəm/
n.
Refers to the quality of being unembellished, natural, or lacking excessive decoration, often associated with elegance and calm.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The simplicity of her room decoration, with just a bed and a desk, makes it feel very peaceful.
The minimalism of her room's decor, containing only a bed and a desk, creates a very tranquil atmosphere.
🔗 Collocations
simplicity of style – an unadorned, clean, and basic manner of design or presentation
simplicity of form – the quality of a shape or structure being basic and not overly intricate
simplicity of decoration – the use of few decorative elements
🔄 Synonyms
minimalism (n.) – a style or technique characterized by extreme spareness and simplicity
plainness (n.) – the quality of being simple and without decoration
austerity (n.) – sternness or severity of manner or attitude; plainness and simplicity in appearance
🚫 Antonyms
ornateness (n.) – the quality of being elaborately or highly decorated
elaborateness (n.) – the quality of being intricate and complicated in design or execution
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