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Definitions

simplify

[sim-pluh-fahy] / ˈsɪm pləˌfaɪ /
VERB
make easy, intelligible
Synonyms
STRONGEST
clarify cut down facilitate reduce shorten streamline
STRONG
abridge analyze chasten decipher disentangle disinvolve elucidate explain interpret order unscramble
WEAK
boil down break down break it down clean it up clean up clear up cut the frills draw a picture get down to basics get to the meat hit the high spots lay out let daylight in let sunlight in make clear make perfectly clear make plain put in a nutshell put one straight spell out
Antonyms
STRONGEST
grow increase
STRONG
be vague confuse mix up mystify obscure
WEAK
complicate make difficult

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Thyssenkrupp has long sought to sell its steel unit in a bid to simplify its sprawling portfolio.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 4, 2026

"If you cannot explain the causes of the Tudors' rise, or simplify the concept of photosynthesis, you don't understand it yet," he says.

From BBC • May 1, 2026

Nike NKE -1.97%decrease; red down pointing triangle will reduce its workforce by some 1,400 workers, or about 2%, as part of the company’s plan to simplify the complexity in its global operations.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026

To simplify, being delta neutral means option dealers will shift their holdings of the underlying asset as option prices move in order to maintain a hedged position.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 20, 2026

To be even more generous and also to simplify the rough calculation, assume it’s a cube 40 billion light-years on a side.

From "Innumeracy: Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences" by John Allen Paulos

Vocabulary lists containing simplify

Academic Vocabulary: Core Tier 2 Words, List 8

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Algebra

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Algebra

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