keep it simple

[kiːp ɪt ˈsɪmpəl]
verb phrase
mantenha a simplicidade
1. to avoid making something unnecessarily complicated or complex; to maintain a straightforward, uncomplicated approach
When designing the website, we decided to keep it simple so users could navigate easily.
Ao desenhar o site, decidimos manter a simplicidade para que os usuários pudessem navegar facilmente.
2. to refrain from adding unnecessary details, features, or embellishments
For the presentation, let's keep it simple and focus on the main points.
Para a apresentação, vamos manter a simplicidade e focar nos pontos principais.
3. to use a basic, straightforward method rather than an elaborate one
I prefer to keep it simple in the kitchen and cook basic meals.
Prefiro manter a simplicidade na cozinha e cozinhar refeições básicas.
This phrase is widely used in both American and Brazilian cultures as practical advice to avoid overthinking. In the USA, it reflects a pragmatic mindset often associated with efficiency and clarity in business and daily life. In Brazil, the concept aligns with a more relaxed approach (jogo de cintura) but emphasizing practicality. The phrase has become increasingly common in tech and design culture globally, promoting minimalism and user-friendly approaches.
NYC Slang
keep it real and simple; fuhgeddabout the extras
Synonyms / Sinônimos
keep it basickeep it straightforwarddon't overthink itmake it simplesimplify
Antonyms / Antônimos
complicate mattersovercomplicatemake it complexadd complexity

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
mantenha a simplicidade
most common translation; literally 'maintain the simplicity'
General Brazilian Portuguese
não complique
colloquial alternative; literally 'don't complicate'
São Paulo
fica simples
informal regional variant
Portugal
mantenha a simplicidade
same as Brazilian Portuguese in formal contexts; less commonly used in European Portuguese

Related Words

simplicitystraightforwarduncomplicatedminimalistno-frillsbare-bones

Related Idioms & Phrases

less is more
back to basics
cut to the chase
no bells and whistles
strip it down to the basics
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