as in naive
lacking in sophistication
a simplistic belief in claims of the product's effectiveness simplistic thinking
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Recent Examples of simplistic
For those who like the simplistic approach of minimalism but question its sparsity, warm minimalism is the answer.
—
Erica Puisis, The Spruce, 31 Jan. 2026
Thoughtful, not simplistic Complex problems deserve depth, nuance, and context.
—Daphne Koller, Big Think, 29 Jan. 2026
At the same time, algorithmic content begins offering boys simplistic, and often toxic, storylines about masculinity, belonging, and power.
—Dr. Liz Doe Stone, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
My trusty spreadsheet used a simplistic measure to gauge weather affect on housing costs.
—Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 27 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for simplistic
Erica Puisis, The Spruce, 31 Jan. 2026
Thoughtful, not simplistic Complex problems deserve depth, nuance, and context.
—Daphne Koller, Big Think, 29 Jan. 2026
At the same time, algorithmic content begins offering boys simplistic, and often toxic, storylines about masculinity, belonging, and power.
—Dr. Liz Doe Stone, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
My trusty spreadsheet used a simplistic measure to gauge weather affect on housing costs.
—Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 27 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for simplistic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for simplistic
Adjective
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The first is Jonathan Harker, naïve English solicitor despatched to Transylvania to do a deal with a mysterious Count whose plan is to dip his fangs into Victorian England.—
Demetrios Matheou,
HollywoodReporter,
18 Feb. 2026
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Winning by rallying the naïve and clueless is one thing, but administering a throbbing behemoth is a greater challenge.—
Voice of the People,
New York Daily News,
18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
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That simple sentiment distills what being a Louisianan is about.—
Carlie Procell,
USA Today,
18 Feb. 2026
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No doubt history would be very different if a citizen’s duty was simple obeyance.—
DP Opinion,
Denver Post,
18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
-
This sort of behavior is childish and unsophisticated.—
Josh Brown,Sean Russo,
CNBC,
29 Jan. 2026
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And Blackstone is not an unsophisticated hotel owner.—
Lori Weisberg,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
13 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Simplistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/simplistic. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026.
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