: excessively simple or simplified : treating a problem or subject with false simplicity by omitting or ignoring complicating factors or details
adequate, if occasionally simplistic, historical background Harlow Robinson
The simplistic headlines of the press can be very misleading. Matt Ridley
Choosing wars as demarcations of cultural time segments may seem simplistic, but there is little question that a new sensibility made its appearance in the United States after World War II. Naomi Rosenblum
The facts of nature and of life are more apt to be complex than simple. Simplistic theories are generally one-sided and partial, wrote the American clergyman James Freeman Clarke in the 19th century, nicely illustrating the difference between plain, ordinary simple and the then-new adjective simplistic. Simplistic is generally synonymous with oversimplified, but we didn't have the verb oversimplify and its participle oversimplified until well into the 20th century. Simplistic is sometimes used in the neutral sense of "not complicated" (in which case it is synonymous with simple) but this borders on misuse-simplistic is generally understood to be pejorative.
Example Sentences
a simplistic approach to a complicated problem His interpretation of the theory was too simplistic.
Recent Examples on the WebIn the best cases, these bonds transcend any simplistic dynamic of a caregiver and a person being cared for, instead embodying a profound reciprocity. Julie Halpert, The Atlantic, 6 Sep. 2022 Fans love the wholesome competition show for its positive tone, simplistic style and oh-so-sweet creations. Dave Quinn, Peoplemag, 6 Sep. 2022 Its emotional core, though simplistic, is just as big and openhearted. Sydney Odman, The Hollywood Reporter, 31 Aug. 2022 Its emotional core, though simplistic, is just as big and openhearted. Michaela Zee, Variety, 31 Aug. 2022 And the Law of the Reliable B-Movie Director, which declares that in the hands of someone without a discernible voice but who still knows how to hug the narrative curves, a simplistic slab of pulp can become transcendental. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 19 Aug. 2022 The bad news is that salespeople tend to mistake simple for simplistic. Julie Thomas, Forbes, 17 Aug. 2022 Its aim to create a gritty feel for the sordid underside of Los Angeles life dissolves in the simplistic nature of Youcef’s scheme, which seems likely to quickly land him behind bars. Kyle Smith, WSJ, 11 Aug. 2022 Those who opt for simplistic formulas and flat literalism aren’t just taking the easy road, however.The Salt Lake Tribune, 19 July 2022 See More