# simplest

/ˈsɪmpɫəst/ (US) · /sˈɪmpləst/ (UK) · CEFR A1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/simplest
Updated: 2026-05-03

## Definition

the easiest to do or understand. You use this when comparing three or more things to find the one that is the least difficult or complicated.

For teachers: the superlative form of 'simple', indicating the highest degree of ease, lack of complexity, or plainness among a group of items.

## Examples

- The simplest way to get there is by bus.
- After trying several difficult methods, we found that the simplest solution worked the best.
- In scientific research, the principle of parsimony suggests that the simplest explanation that fits all the available data is usually the most likely to be correct.

## Pitfalls

- Not "the most simplest" but "the simplest" — Do not use 'most' with adjectives that already have an '-est' ending.

## Usage notes

- Superlative form; typically preceded by the definite article 'the'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.