Over-simplify

To present something in a way that is simpler than reality, often by omitting important details or complexities. This can lead to a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of the subject matter. Over-simplification typically involves reducing a complex idea, problem, or situation to its most basic elements, often sacrificing nuance and accuracy in the process. The resulting explanation or analysis may be easily grasped but is also often incomplete or misleading, because the intricate interrelationships of the matter have been bypassed. Over-simplifying often occurs when there's a desire for clarity or ease of understanding but can be at the expense of true meaning or understanding. It can be used in educational settings, for marketing, or when there is a need to explain complex ideas to someone with no existing knowledge of the topic.

Over-simplify meaning with examples

• The textbook over-simplified the causes of World War I, ignoring the complex web of alliances and economic factors, and just attributing the conflict to one assassination. This reductionist approach provided a superficial understanding for students. The truth was far more elaborate. This presentation lacked any real depth.
• When explaining climate change to the general public, scientists sometimes over-simplify the models and variables to avoid confusion, potentially making it seem less dire than it actually is. The trade-off is greater public understanding in exchange for nuanced accuracy. The complexities are simply not easy to explain.
• The campaign's marketing team over-simplified the candidate's policy proposals, reducing them to catchy slogans that ignored crucial details and potential negative effects. This superficial focus on a simple idea, instead of a complex issue, ignored reality.
• In a news report, the journalist over-simplified the economic impact of automation by just focusing on job losses, without acknowledging the creation of new job opportunities and productivity gains. A more balanced picture was necessary.
• The historical novel over-simplified the character of a complex historical figure to make the story more appealing to the average reader. The goal was to create a good story and not historical accuracy. Much information was discarded.