simplemente
/seem-pleh-MEN-teh/
simply
When used to mean 'just' or 'only', simplemente emphasizes that an action is minimal or restricted, like simplemente presiona el botón verde (just press the green button).
simplemente(Adverb)
simply
?to emphasize something is no more than stated
,just
?meaning 'only' or 'merely'
only
?as a synonym for 'just'
,merely
?a slightly more formal equivalent
📝 In Action
No estoy enojado, simplemente estoy cansado.
A2I'm not angry, I'm just tired.
Para empezar, simplemente presiona el botón verde.
A2To start, simply press the green button.
A veces, la mejor solución es simplemente esperar.
B1Sometimes, the best solution is simply to wait.
No tienes que hacer una comida complicada, simplemente pide una pizza.
B1You don't have to make a complicated meal, just order a pizza.
💡 Grammar Points
Where to Put 'Simplemente' in a Sentence
'Simplemente' is pretty flexible. You can often put it right before the verb or the part of the sentence you want to emphasize. For example, 'Simplemente no entiendo' (I just don't understand) and 'No entiendo, simplemente' both work.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Confusing 'Simplemente' and 'Solo'
Mistake: "Using 'simplemente' when you mean 'alone'. For example, 'Viajo simplemente.'"
Correction: To say 'I'm traveling alone,' you must use 'solo': 'Viajo solo/sola.' 'Simplemente' means 'just' or 'simply,' not 'alone'.
⭐ Usage Tips
Downplaying Complexity
Use 'simplemente' to make something sound easy or to cut to the chase. It's like saying, 'Look, it boils down to this...' or 'It's not a big deal, it's just...'
This meaning of simplemente describes performing an action or living life in a plain, uncomplicated way, such as decorating a house simplemente (very simply).
simplemente(Adverb)
simply
?in a plain or uncomplicated way
plainly
?describing appearance or manner
,unpretentiously
?without showing off
📝 In Action
La casa estaba decorada muy simplemente, pero con buen gusto.
B1The house was decorated very simply, but with good taste.
Explicó la teoría simplemente, para que todos la entendieran.
B1He explained the theory simply, so that everyone would understand it.
Prefiero vivir simplemente, sin muchas cosas materiales.
B2I prefer to live simply, without a lot of material things.
⭐ Usage Tips
Describing Style and Manner
This meaning is great for describing aesthetics, lifestyles, or communication. Think of it as answering the question 'How?'. How does she dress? 'Viste simplemente.' (She dresses simply.)
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: simplemente
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence best means 'She prefers to dress in a simple, unpretentious way'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'simplemente', 'solo', and 'solamente'?
They can often be used to mean 'just' or 'only,' but there's a subtle difference. 'Simplemente' often emphasizes that something is uncomplicated ('it's just a matter of time'). 'Solo' and 'solamente' are more about quantity or exclusivity ('I only have five dollars'). Also, remember that 'solo' can be an adjective meaning 'alone,' while 'simplemente' and 'solamente' cannot.