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How to Say "simply" in Spanish

English → Spanish

simplemente

/seem-pleh-MEN-teh//simple'mente/

adverbA2/B1general
Use 'simplemente' when you want to emphasize that something is no more than what is stated, or to describe something as plain or uncomplicated.
A cartoon hand reaching out to press a single, large, glowing green button centered on a plain white control panel, illustrating the concept of 'just' or 'only' this action.

Examples

No quiero ir, simplemente estoy cansado.

I don't want to go, I'm simply tired.

No estoy enojado, simplemente estoy cansado.

I'm not angry, I'm just tired.

Para empezar, simplemente presiona el botón verde.

To start, simply press the green button.

A veces, la mejor solución es simplemente esperar.

Sometimes, the best solution is simply to wait.

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.

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'.

fácilmente

adverbA2general
Use 'fácilmente' when 'simply' means 'easily', referring to a task or action that can be done without difficulty.

Examples

Puedes resolver este problema fácilmente.

You can solve this problem easily.

nomás

adverbA2informal
Use 'nomás' (often in informal contexts, especially in Latin America) to mean 'just' or 'only', implying a small quantity or duration, or to describe something as uncomplicated.

Examples

Solo quiero comer nomás.

I just want to eat.

Simplemente vs. Fácilmente

Learners often confuse 'simplemente' and 'fácilmente'. Remember that 'fácilmente' specifically translates to 'easily' and refers to the lack of difficulty. 'Simplemente' is used for emphasis ('just') or plainness ('uncomplicatedly').

Related Translations

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