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.
Tell them that influencers often oversimplify complicated issues—and may have their own agendas. Sherri Gordon, Parents, 29 July 2025 Attempting to oversimplify a complex system can lead to costly and inflexible outcomes. Miroslav Katsarov, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025 How to Find Your Values This is oversimplifying things a bit. Harmon Kong, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025 Crediting a single family with the invention of the genre oversimplifies country music's complex history and disregards the contributions of multiple ethnic groups. Diana Leyva, The Tennessean, 2 July 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 8 Aug. 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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