Translation guide
Describes something that is simple, straightforward, or not complex. In Japanese, this is often expressed with words like 簡単 (simple), 単純 (simple/uncomplicated), or シンプル (simple). The best choice depends on whether you're talking about a task, a person, or a situation.
Expressing that a task, problem, or concept is not difficult or complex.
The most common and versatile word for 'simple' or 'easy'. Works for tasks, explanations, and problems.
この問題は簡単です。
This problem is uncomplicated.
説明が簡単でわかりやすい。
The explanation is uncomplicated and easy to understand.
Loanword from English 'simple'. Often used for design, plans, or solutions that are elegantly uncomplicated.
シンプルな解決策を見つけた。
I found an uncomplicated solution.
Means 'simple' in the sense of being uncomplicated or not mixed with other elements. Can sometimes imply 'naive' when describing a person.
仕組みはとても単純だ。
The mechanism is very uncomplicated.
Describing a process, relationship, or situation that is free of complications or hidden difficulties.
Literally 'not complicated'. A direct and clear way to say uncomplicated.
彼との関係は複雑ではない。
My relationship with him is uncomplicated.
Means 'easy to understand'. Implies that something is presented in an uncomplicated way.
このマニュアルはとてもわかりやすい。
This manual is very uncomplicated.
Describes something as clean, neat, or uncluttered, often used for designs or explanations that are refreshingly uncomplicated.
彼の説明はすっきりしていて理解しやすい。
His explanation is uncomplicated and easy to grasp.
Describing a person who is simple, direct, or not prone to drama or complexity.
A 'simple person'. Can be positive (uncomplicated) or slightly negative (naive) depending on context.
彼は単純な人で、裏表がない。
He is an uncomplicated person, with no hidden side.
Describes a frank, open, and uncomplicated personality. Often used positively.
彼女はさっぱりした性格で付き合いやすい。
She has an uncomplicated personality and is easy to get along with.
簡単 (kantan) is the safest choice for 'uncomplicated' in most contexts. 単純 (tanjun) emphasizes a lack of complexity in structure, but can sound negative when describing people (implying simple-mindedness). シンプル (shinpuru) is often used for design or concepts that are elegantly simple.
この料理は簡単だ。
This dish is uncomplicated (easy to make).
システムは単純な構造だ。
The system has an uncomplicated structure.
シンプルなデザインが好きだ。
I like uncomplicated designs.
There is no single Japanese word that directly corresponds to 'uncomplicated' in all uses. Translating it as 非複雑 (hi-fukuzatsu) is not natural. Instead, use the appropriate word based on context: 簡単, 単純, or a negative form like 複雑ではない.