uncomplicated
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Meaning
simple and easy to understand; not complex or difficult.
(of a person) straightforward and easy to get along with.
Structure
Usage
the instructions were refreshingly uncomplicated and easy to follow.
she has an uncomplicated approach to problem-solving.
we enjoyed an uncomplicated day at the beach.
Etymology
The word "uncomplicated" is a relatively Modern English formation, built upon the older verb "complicate." The core of the word, "complicate," originates from the Latin complicare, meaning "to fold together," which itself is formed from com- (together) and plicare (to fold). This literal sense of folding together evolved metaphorically to mean making something intricate or involved. The addition of the Old English negative prefix "un-" directly reverses this meaning, creating the sense of "not made complex." Finally, the past participle suffix "-ed" completes the word, giving it its standard adjectival form to describe a state of simplicity.
Analysis
- un: a prefix of germanic origin (old english) meaning "not," used to form negatives. - complicate: from latin complicatus, the past participle of complicare meaning "to fold together, combine, or entangle." - ed: a suffix of germanic origin (old english) used to form adjectives from verbs or nouns, often indicating a state or condition.