Etimology
From Middle English symply, symplely; equivalent to simple + -ly, with *-lely simplified to -ly by haplology.
adverb
simply (comparative more simply, superlative most simply)
(manner) In a simple way or state; considered in or by itself; without addition; alone.
(manner) Plainly; without art or subtlety
(manner) Foolishly; stupidly.
(focus) Merely; solely.
(degree) absolutely, positively.
Frankly.
Examples
Antonym: complexly
Synonyms: clearly, obviously, unquestionably
Mrs. Thorold had told her sons that a young lady was visiting at the house, whose history she had given them in short hand, describing her as a dependent on the late Mrs. Willoughby, whom her son had very simply intended to marry at Alvestone […] .
Synonyms: just; see also Thesaurus:merely
I was simply asking a question.
A “moving platform” scheme […] is more technologically ambitious than maglev trains even though it relies on conventional rails. […] This set-up solves several problems […]. Stopping high-speed trains wastes energy and time, so why not simply slow them down enough for a moving platform to pull alongside?
Rather than scanning a boarding pass or handing over a passport, you simply stare into a camera and you’re verified.
Synonyms: very; see also Thesaurus:very
That was a simply wonderful dessert.
What about the way you love me? / And the way you squeeze me? / Simply beautiful
Synonyms: honestly; see also Thesaurus:actually
Simply, he just fired you.
Related words
related terms
single