oversimplify

verb

over·​sim·​pli·​fy ˌō-vər-ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce oversimplify (audio)
oversimplified; oversimplifying; oversimplifies

transitive verb

: to simplify to such an extent as to bring about distortion, misunderstanding, or error

intransitive verb

: to engage in undue or extreme simplification
oversimplification noun

Examples of oversimplify in a Sentence

The article oversimplifies the problem. She tends to oversimplify things. We must resist the temptation to oversimplify.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
However, this assertion oversimplifies a complex and highly contextual legal principle. Virginie Berger, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025 And yeah, there’s some character judgements in there too, but Jenkins von Blowhard has oversimplified things quite a bit there. Sara Netzley, EW.com, 19 Dec. 2024 Erin Earp, senior policy attorney at Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence, said oversimplifying the issue can alienate and even shame gun owners. John Diedrich, USA TODAY, 14 Dec. 2024 There are critics for every generation who popularize some stereotypes and oversimplify their characteristics or work styles. Nitin Gupta, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for oversimplify

Word History

First Known Use

1897, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of oversimplify was in 1897

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Cite this Entry

“Oversimplify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oversimplify. Accessed 30 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

oversimplify

verb
over·​sim·​pli·​fy ˌō-vər-ˈsim-plə-ˌfī How to pronounce oversimplify (audio)
: to simplify something so much that the result is confusing, misleading, or wrong
oversimplification noun

More from Merriam-Webster on oversimplify

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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