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
The Toyota Sienna’s modern design, flawless comfort and simplistic utilization give the KIA Carnival a serious run for its money.
—
Marc D Grasso, Hartford Courant, 4 Apr. 2026
The bordered design is simplistic and modern, and it’s constructed with a non-slip surface underneath to mitigate movement.
—Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 2 Apr. 2026
Historians, educators, activists and politicians for far too long elevated Chávez above Huerta in the name of a simplistic narrative that should’ve never been constructed.
—Gustavo Arellano, Mercury News, 27 Mar. 2026
Historians, educators, activists and politicians for far too long elevated Chávez above Huerta in the name of a simplistic narrative that should’ve never been constructed.
—Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 24 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for simplistic
Marc D Grasso, Hartford Courant, 4 Apr. 2026
The bordered design is simplistic and modern, and it’s constructed with a non-slip surface underneath to mitigate movement.
—Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 2 Apr. 2026
Historians, educators, activists and politicians for far too long elevated Chávez above Huerta in the name of a simplistic narrative that should’ve never been constructed.
—Gustavo Arellano, Mercury News, 27 Mar. 2026
Historians, educators, activists and politicians for far too long elevated Chávez above Huerta in the name of a simplistic narrative that should’ve never been constructed.
—Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 24 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for simplistic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for simplistic
Adjective
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The series’ earnestly naïve sound design (horses neighing, cars revving) only enhanced my appreciation of Joudrey’s sophisticated storytelling.—
Sheldon Pearce,
New Yorker,
24 Apr. 2026
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But anyone who thinks that’s what CTU’s deal is about is hopelessly naive.—
The Editorial Board,
Chicago Tribune,
19 Apr. 2026
Adjective
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The overall aesthetic was slightly ascetic without being spartan—a pale, neutral color palette; simple, modern furniture; a few pieces of abstract art.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
22 Apr. 2026
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This translates to the Gap cardigan sweater and the Levi’s shorts paired with the flats for a simple, slightly elevated look that feels comfortable.—
Isis Briones,
Travel + Leisure,
22 Apr. 2026
Adjective
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Knowing that Rocky’s voice would come from Grace’s unsophisticated computer setup, Ortiz gathered inspirations, at times subconsciously, from a variety of robotic sources.—
Carlos Aguilar,
Los Angeles Times,
7 Apr. 2026
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Rock and pop are often unsophisticated, or downright dumb.—
Jed Gottlieb,
Boston Herald,
26 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Simplistic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/simplistic. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.
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