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Definitions

oversimplify

[oh-ver-sim-pluh-fahy] / ˌoʊ vərˈsɪm pləˌfaɪ /
VERB
make too simple
Synonyms


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

"Conventional simulations oversimplify real materials, while experiments reveal complexity without a clear way to quantify cause and effect," explains Prof. Kotsugi.

From Science Daily May 18, 2026

Wald doesn’t think investors should oversimplify and assume that a strong dollar is always a headwind for big U.S. multinational companies—or a weak dollar supportive because it makes exports cheaper.

From Barron's Feb. 2, 2026

“Blanket messages may oversimplify complex evidence,” they wrote.

From MarketWatch Dec. 23, 2025

The state’s proposed Zone 0 regulations oversimplify complex conditions in real neighborhoods and go beyond what is currently known from scientific research regarding plant flammability.

From Los Angeles Times Jun. 2, 2025

It’s easy to oversimplify what was undoubtedly a rapid and dramatic expansion, and to picture all Khoisan in the way being trampled by onrushing Bantu hordes.

From "Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies" by Jared M. Diamond

Some critics argue influencer‑led charity oversimplifies deep‑rooted issues and risks becoming more spectacle than solution.

From Salon Aug. 3, 2025

While plausible, this view oversimplifies broader global trade instability that South America is also exposed to.

From BBC Apr. 25, 2025

In interviews, several researchers said the blanket warning Dr. Murthy has proposed — “social media is associated with significant mental health harms for adolescents” — stretches and oversimplifies the scientific evidence.

From New York Times Jun. 19, 2024

"That number really oversimplifies what happens physiologically in the body when your body is exposed to that temperature, and it doesn't account for important variables like age or other vulnerability factors."

From Science Daily Nov. 30, 2023

Suffice to say that there is a core of truth to Jefferson’s account of the dinner-table bargain, though it vastly oversimplifies the history that was happening at that propitious moment.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Ahead of council tax rises for millions of people this April, StepChange has called for an end to imprisonment and "unsympathetic or oversimplified messaging" over non-payment.

From BBC Mar. 22, 2026

“We are concerned this testing, without the proper scientific, regulatory and environmental context, can lead to oversimplified statements, not representative of the product category or industry.”

From Salon Mar. 20, 2026

“What people are seeing are really oversimplified TikToks or reels that say put $300 in Roth and you’ll have $1 million later on,” said Holden.

From MarketWatch Jan. 13, 2026

"The ice giant classification is oversimplified as Uranus and Neptune are still poorly understood," says Luca Morf, PhD student at the University of Zurich and lead author of the work.

From Science Daily Dec. 10, 2025

Listen to this: “The dynamic interstices of the Harlem sub-culture have been oversimplified and distorted by Malcolm X to meet his own needs.”

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey

As a broad history of the pursuit around the world, “Hunting” succeeds in guiding the reader through various contexts without oversimplifying them.

From The Wall Street Journal Apr. 30, 2026

To them, Vance's portrayal of Appalachian in both his book and on rally stages feels like an outsider's perspective, oversimplifying the complexities and resilience of their communities.

From Salon Aug. 5, 2024

Given Weinstein’s power, Manning said, his defense team is oversimplifying the pressure each woman faced to acquiesce to him.

From Los Angeles Times Nov. 8, 2022

What distinguishes “Inspired” is its expansive range and conversational tone, as well as Richtel’s ability to synthesize a lot of complex research, simplifying without oversimplifying.

From Washington Post Jun. 24, 2022

He was oversimplifying here, skittering off there, dodging and feinting.

From "Go Set a Watchman: A Novel" by Harper Lee



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