"could simply be" vs "could be simply"

Question

"could simply be" vs "could be simply"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "Could be simply" is used when emphasizing the simplicity of a situation or solution, while "could simply be" is used to suggest a straightforward or easy possibility.

Last Updated: March 19, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate a possibility that is straightforward or easy to understand. It implies that the situation being described is not complex.

Examples:

The reason for his absence could simply be that he forgot about the meeting.
The explanation could simply be that the system crashed.

Alternatives:

could be simply
could just be
could easily be

This phrase is used to highlight the straightforward nature of a situation or solution. It emphasizes the simplicity of the scenario being described.

Examples:

The answer could be simply to ask for help.
The solution could be simply to turn it off and on again.

Alternatives:

could just be
could easily be
could be straightforwardly

Answer 1

could simply be

This phrase is correct and is used to suggest a straightforward or easy possibility.

Answer 2

could be simply

This phrase is correct and can be used to emphasize the simplicity of a situation or solution.

"could simply be" vs "could be simply"

could simply be

could be simply

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