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simplement
/sɛ̃plə.mɑ̃/
simply
Il a simplement oublié son portefeuille.
He simply forgot his wallet.
neutral
in a straightforward or uncomplicated manner; without embellishment
Elle a répondu simplement à la question.
She answered the question simply.
Ce problème se résout simplement.
This problem is solved simply.
Used to emphasize that something is done without complexity or additional elements.
neutral
only; merely; no more than
Il veut simplement une tasse de café.
He just wants a cup of coffee.
C'est simplement une question de temps.
It's merely a matter of time.
Used to indicate that something is limited to a single fact or condition.
neutral
in a plain or unadorned way; without pretension
Elle vit simplement, sans luxe.
She lives simply, without luxury.
Used to describe a lifestyle or manner that avoids excess.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 'simply' in English
'Simplement' is a versatile word in French, but its direct translation 'simply' in English can sound unnatural in some contexts. Consider alternatives like 'just', 'merely', or 'plainly' depending on the nuance you want to convey.
Gold Rule
Position in sentence
In French, 'simplement' typically appears after the verb it modifies or at the beginning of the sentence for emphasis. In English, 'simply' often follows the verb or auxiliary verb.
Word Origin
From Old French *simplement*, derived from Latin *simpliciter* (simply), from *simplex* (simple). The adverbial form emerged in the 12th century.
Usage Notes
In French, 'simplement' is often used to soften a statement or make it sound more natural in conversation. It can also imply modesty or lack of pretense.
Word Breakdown
simple
simple
root-ment
adverbial suffix
suffixDictionnaire Français-Anglais