Word
simpler
Phoneticssim·pler
US/ˈsɪmpəɫɝ/
UK/sˈɪmplɐ/
Definitions
01easier or less complex
A1 · Beginner
adj. easier to do, understand, or use than something else.
adj. the comparative form of 'simple', indicating a greater degree of ease or a lower level of complexity.
“The new instructions are much simpler to follow than the old ones.”
“The engineers sought a simpler solution to the mechanical failure, as the initial proposal was far too expensive to implement.”
Usage
Followed by 'than' when comparing two specific things.
Pitfall
This task is more simpler than the last one.
This task is simpler than the last one.
Do not use 'more' with 'simpler' because 'simpler' already includes the comparative meaning.
Teaching tip
Learners often produce the double comparative 'more simpler'; remind them that '-er' replaces the need for 'more'.
Synonyms
02a herbalist
C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Medicine Archaic
n. an old word for a person who grows or collects plants for medicine.
n. a person who collects or grows medicinal herbs (simples).
“In the old story, a simpler lived in the woods and made tea from wild flowers.”
“The village simpler was often consulted for her knowledge of local flora before the arrival of the town's first trained physician.”
Usage
Rarely encountered outside of historical fiction or botanical history.
Teaching tip
This sense is extremely rare in modern English; students will likely only see it in period literature.
Synonyms
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A1 MoversIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.2.0–3.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 1.0–1.50–23TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.120–224
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- A1 · Beginner
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/simpler