simpliciter
Definition
- Adverb:
- Absolutely; without qualification: "simpliciter" means in an unqualified or unconditional manner, often used in philosophical or legal contexts to indicate something considered in its purest or most basic form, without any additional conditions or exceptions.
- Universally; in general: It can also refer to something that applies broadly or universally, without limitation.
Usage Examples
- (The principle is true in an absolute, unqualified way.)
- (Ownership is defined in its most basic, unconditional sense.)
Advanced Usage
"simpliciter" in philosophy: Often used to distinguish between a thing considered in itself (simpliciter) versus in a particular context (secundum quid).
- Happiness simpliciter is the ultimate good, not happiness under certain conditions. (Happiness in its pure, unqualified form.)
"simpliciter" in legal writing: Indicates a term or rule applied without exceptions or modifications.
- The statute prohibits fraud simpliciter, not merely fraudulent intent. (Fraud is prohibited in its absolute sense, not just the intention.)
Variants and Related Words
Simplicity (n): the quality or condition of being easy to understand or do.
- The simplicity of the explanation made it accessible to all. (The explanation was straightforward.)
Simple (adj): easily understood or done; presenting no difficulty.
- The solution was simple and effective. (The solution was uncomplicated.)
Synonyms
- Absolutely: in a complete or unconditional manner.
- Unqualifiedly: without reservations or limitations.
- Universally: in a way that applies to all cases.
Phrasal Verbs
- None. "simpliciter" is an adverb and does not form phrasal verbs.
Related Idioms
In the abstract: considered theoretically or in general, without specific details.
- In the abstract, freedom simpliciter is a fundamental right. (Freedom considered in its most general sense.)
Per se: by or in itself; intrinsically.
- Lying per se is wrong, but simpliciter it is always harmful. (Lying in itself is wrong, absolutely considered.)