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Oversimplify Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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oversimplify

[ˈoʊvərˈsɪmpləˌfaɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

communication

To explain something in a way that is too simple or basic, often to the point of being misleading or inaccurate. Oversimplification can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations.

Synonyms

overgeneralize, reduce to basics, simplify too much.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
oversimplify

Use when something is made simpler than it actually is, missing important details.

  • To say that all politicians are corrupt is to oversimplify a complicated issue
simplify too much

Use when simplification causes loss of important information, similar to oversimplify but less formal.

  • Trying to explain quantum physics in two sentences is simplifying it too much
overgeneralize

Use when a broad statement is made from a small amount of information, often inaccurately.

  • Just because one restaurant was bad doesn't mean all restaurants in the city are bad
  • That's an overgeneralization
reduce to basics

Use when breaking down a complex issue to its fundamental elements, often for clarity.

  • Before diving into the details of the project, let's reduce it to basics so everyone understands the goal

Examples of usage

  • He tends to oversimplify complex issues, which can be misleading.
  • She oversimplified the instructions, causing confusion among the team.
  • Don't oversimplify the situation, it's more complicated than you think.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'oversimplify'

The term 'oversimplify' originated in the early 20th century, combining the prefix 'over-' meaning excessively or too much, with 'simplify' meaning to make something easier to understand. The concept of oversimplification has been studied in various fields such as psychology, communication, and philosophy, highlighting the dangers of reducing complex ideas or issues to overly simplistic explanations.

See also: oversimplified, oversimplifying, simplifiable, simplification, simplifying.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,817 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.