Simplified

Simplified is an adjective used to indicate that something has been made less complex, easier to use, or easier to understand. It describes processes, forms, or representations in which extraneous details are removed or reorganized while preserving the essential function or meaning. The term appears across disciplines, from linguistics and education to mathematics and design.

In writing systems, Simplified Chinese refers to a set of Chinese characters that have been reduced in complexity from the traditional forms. Developed in the mid-20th century and adopted in Mainland China and Singapore, these characters typically have fewer strokes. They exist alongside Traditional Chinese characters used in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau, and the choice between them is linked to literacy, culture, and politics.

In language reform, simplified spelling or orthography aims to reduce irregularities and make orthography more predictable. Such reforms have occurred in several languages and can improve learning speed, but they may encounter resistance from communities attached to historic spellings and to national identity.

In mathematics and logic, simplification means transforming an expression or equation into an equivalent, easier-to-compute form. Examples include reducing fractions, factoring polynomials, or combining like terms, such as simplifying 2x^2 + 4x to 2x(x+2).

In science, technology, and design, a simplified approach or model omits nonessential details to highlight core relationships or functionality. This is common in user interface design, where simplified interfaces aim for clarity, and in model-building, where simplified models balance accuracy with tractability. The concept often aligns with the broader principle of keeping systems and procedures easy to learn and use.