Simplifying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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simplifying

[ˈsɪmplɪfaɪɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

mathematics

To make a math problem easier by reducing it to a simpler form or expression.

Synonyms

clarify, reduce, streamline.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
simplifying

Use when making something easier to understand or perform by breaking it down or removing complexity.

  • He focused on simplifying the process for new employees.
  • Simplifying the instructions will help customers use the product better.
reduce

Use when aiming to make something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size.

  • He wants to reduce the number of errors in the report.
  • The company is looking to reduce costs this quarter.
streamline

Use when making a process more efficient and effective by eliminating unnecessary steps or simplifying the procedure.

  • Streamlining the workflow will increase productivity.
  • The new software was introduced to streamline communication between departments.
clarify

Use when aiming to make something clear or easier to understand, often by explaining or providing more details.

  • Can you clarify what you meant by that statement?
  • The teacher needs to clarify the homework assignment for the students.

Examples of usage

  • She simplified the equation by combining like terms.
  • After simplifying the fractions, the answer became clearer.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Education

  • In teaching, simplifying complex concepts can make learning more accessible for students.
  • Teachers often use analogies and examples to break down difficult subjects into simpler ideas.
  • Project-based learning encourages students to simplify their ideas into clear, achievable goals.

Psychology

  • Simplifying can reduce stress by helping individuals focus on essential tasks rather than feeling overwhelmed.
  • Cognitive load theory suggests that simplifying information can enhance learning because it reduces mental effort.
  • In decision-making, simplifying options can lead to quicker, more confident choices.

Technology

  • User interface design emphasizes simplifying to enhance user experience by making software intuitive.
  • Algorithms are often simplified to run more efficiently on devices with limited processing power.
  • The trend in modern apps is towards minimalism, which focuses on simplification for better functionality.

Art

  • In visual arts, simplifying forms can create powerful compositions by stripping away unnecessary details.
  • Many famous artists, like Picasso, used simplification to convey deeper meanings through fewer elements.
  • The art movement known as minimalism prioritizes simplicity, often using limited colors and shapes.

Origin of 'simplifying'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'simplifying' comes from the Latin root 'simplificare', meaning to make simple.
  • The prefix 'sim-' suggests 'one' or 'single', indicating a focus on simplicity.
  • It gained its modern usage in English around the 15th century.

The word 'simplify' originated from the Latin word 'simplificare', which means 'to make simple'. The concept of simplifying can be traced back to ancient mathematicians who sought to find the most straightforward solutions to complex problems. Over time, the term has been widely used in various fields, including mathematics, science, and everyday language.


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

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,373, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.