I am planning to use the word simpel in my technology product. I have found two contrasting definitions on the web:
- simple, easy to use
- stupid, dumb
What is the more popular meaning of the word? Is it more positive or negative?
I am planning to use the word simpel in my technology product. I have found two contrasting definitions on the web:
What is the more popular meaning of the word? Is it more positive or negative?
When used for a technology product the usage of "simpel" is not appropriate. Indeed it does have the subtle meaning of something to be very easy on one hand but on the other hand also to be not so sophisticated.
In the context of technology use e.g.:
es ist einfach zu bedienen (simple)
es ist leicht zu bedienen (easy)
es ist nicht schwer zusammenzubauen (not hard)
simple
with einfach
and easy
with leicht
. I'd consider the two synonymous in this context.
Both meanings are popular, but I can't think of a situation in which a) is intended and b) is understood. So the problem is not a possible misunderstanding.
However, to my ears, "simpel" does not sound like a word you want to have in an operating manual. It's not colloquial, but somehow a little blunt (can't find a better way to describe it). The standard word is "einfach", it has the meaning a) and sounds a lot better (at least in written text).