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Meaning of oversimplify
to make something seem less complex or serious than it really is
Etymology of oversimplify
The word "oversimplify" is a combination of "over" (meaning too much or excessively) and "simplify" (meaning to make something simpler)
The term "simplify" comes from the Latin "simplificare," which is a combination of "simplex" (meaning simple) and the suffix "-ficare" (meaning to make)
The word "oversimplify" has been in use since the mid-20th century, primarily in academic and intellectual contexts
Synonyms
simplify
streamline
reduce
condense
abbreviate
truncate
curtail
abridge
shorten
diminish
lessen
minimize
water down
dumb down
generalize
universalize
homogenize
sterilize
dilute
weaken
enfeeble
debilitate
attenuate
moderate
temper
downplay
understate
underplay
belittle
trivialize
marginalize
gloss over
skirt around
circumvent
evade
avoid
shun
eschew
slight
neglect
overlook
ignore
dismiss
Definitions
- To represent or explain something in a way that is too simple or straightforward, often losing important details or nuances
- * To make something simpler, but in doing so, losing its true character or significance
Usage Examples
- The professor accused the student of oversimplifying the complex issue in their essay
- * The documentary oversimplified the historical event, failing to provide adequate context
- * The company's marketing campaign oversimplified the benefits of their new product, leading to unrealistic expectations