Simpler vs More Simple: When to Use Each for Clarity

As a copy editor and writing coach who has fixed 10,000+ sentences over 12 years, here’s the quick take: say “simpler” most of the time. “More simple” is fine for emphasis or rhythm. Yes, both work. The whole “simpler or more simple” debate lives inside basic comparative adjectives, grammar rules, and plain English. And no, this isn’t a moral issue. It’s clarity.

The short answer you actually need

• Use “simpler” by default. It’s shorter. Cleaner. Feels natural.
• Use “more simple” when you want emphasis or contrast. Like comparing two levels of easy with a nudge.
• Both are correct. “Simpler” uses the -er ending. “More simple” uses a helper word (that’s called periphrasis, but we can skip the fancy label).
• Don’t overthink it. Read your sentence out loud. Pick what sounds right and clear.

If you like a tidy rule page, check Cambridge’s guidance on comparative and superlative adjectives. It’s short and useful.

Why “simpler” usually wins

I’ve always found that shorter words win in real writing. “Simpler” beats “more simple” the way sneakers beat high heels on stairs. It’s about speed and flow.

In my experience, when a line is tight, readers stick with you. When it’s wordy, they wander off for snacks. So I default to “simpler.” Then I keep moving.

If you’re choosing between two forms and your brain stalls, this tiny refresher on choose vs chose vs choosing is a good reminder: form matters, but clarity is the point.

When “more simple” makes sense

Sometimes you want an extra beat. A little weight. “This plan is more simple than the last one.” You’re not just saying it’s easy—you’re nudging the contrast. I use it when the sentence around it is long, and “simpler” snaps too fast.

Or when I stack modifiers: “much more simple,” “even more simple,” “far more simple.” The helper word lets you stack. “Much simpler” also works. Pick the one that fits your voice.

A nerdy rhythm note (don’t worry, it’s quick)

Some lines have better music with “more simple.” If a sentence is bumpy, I test both. I mumble it. I clap once or twice like a gremlin. Whatever lands, I keep. No ceremony.

By the way, typos ruin good choices. I still see people write the past participle wrong, like “I have writen” (nope). If that stung a little, bookmark this clear check on written vs writen so your verbs don’t betray you.

Real-world editing mini-cases

• Tech guide: “A simpler setup reduces errors.” I kept “simpler.” Punchy. True.
• Policy memo: “This form is more simple for new staff.” The writer wanted contrast with the old mess. “More simple” felt right.
• Student essay: “A simpler plot can still carry big ideas.” Good line. No tweak.
• Marketing draft: “The app makes tax filing more simple for freelancers.” I swapped to “simpler” because the sentence was already long.

While we’re poking at “rules,” plural traps are everywhere. People still ask if it’s “chieves.” It’s not. It’s “chiefs.” This explainer—chiefs (not chieves)—is short and solid.

And verbs love to trip us up. I’ve edited “swinged” more times than I can count. It’s “swung.” If you’ve ever hesitated, this piece on swung or swinged will end the doubt.

Plain language beats perfection

What I think is simple: write so people get it fast. Use the fewest words that carry the meaning. The U.S. plain-language guide says it well—choose the clear path. Their page on how to use simple words and phrases is my north star when clients drift.

Quick reference table

I like tables when my brain is tired. Here’s one you can skim.

Common traps and myths

• Myth: “More simple” is wrong. No. It’s standard English.
• Trap: Switching forms mid-piece. Pick one for a section to keep tone steady.
• Myth: Two-syllable adjectives always take “more.” Not always. “Simple” takes -er just fine.
• Trap: Overstuffing modifiers. “Far much more simple” is a tripping hazard.
• Myth: You must be 100% consistent across a whole document. Not if sections have different tones. Just be intentional.

English loves to be weird. Plurals can be chaos. If you’ve ever been tempted to write “rhinoceri,” please, read this on the actual plural of rhinoceros. It’s a fun rabbit hole.

My micro-checklist (to decide fast)

• Say the line out loud. Which one lands?
• Cut any extra words. Still clear?
• Check tone: casual (simpler), formal (more simple). Not a law. A nudge.
• If you’re emphasizing a contrast, try “more simple.” If not, “simpler.”
• Scan for nearby words that repeat sounds. Avoid tongue twisters.
• Move on. Don’t let two words eat your whole morning.

I’ve spent too many late nights arguing this with other editors. Funny thing—we always end up on the same point: pick what helps the reader. That’s it. The rest is noise. Anyway, I’m off to make some coffee.

FAQs

• Is “more simple” wrong in formal writing?

  Nope. It’s fine. In some reports, “more simple” even feels steadier. If the sentence flows, you’re good.

• Which is more common in conversation?

  “Simpler.” People talk fast. Short wins. That’s why you hear it more.

• Can I say “much simpler” and “much more simple”?

  Yes to both. Read them aloud. Keep the one that sounds clean in your line.

• Does “simplistic” mean the same as “simple”?

  No. “Simplistic” is negative. It means oversimplified. Use “simple” if you mean “easy to understand.”

• So which should I use—simpler or more simple?

  Default to “simpler.” Switch to “more simple” for emphasis, contrast, or rhythm. That’s the whole trick.

Lucas

Hey, I’m Lucas. My blog explores the patterns and connects the dots between tech, business, and gaming. If you’re a curious mind who loves to see how different worlds intersect, you’re in the right place.