- A phrase indicating that a conclusion, explanation, or solution is very simple, obvious, and easily deduced. Often used humorously or with mock intellectual superiority.
Explanation
Origin
- Inextricably linked to the fictional detective Sherlock Holmes, created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
- Holmes often explained his deductions as Elementary to his companion Dr. Watson, whom he sometimes addressed as my dear Watson.
- However, the precise phrase Elementary, my dear Watson does *not* appear in any of Doyle's original canonical stories.
- It likely originated or was popularized in early stage plays or film adaptations and became cemented in the public consciousness as Holmes's quintessential explanation.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Duh! / No duh. (Often sarcastic)
- Easy peasy (lemon squeezy).
- That was easy.
- Figure it out. (More directive)
More Formal:
- The solution is quite straightforward.
- The conclusion is self-evident.
- It follows logically that...
Situational Appropriateness
- Primarily informal and humorous. Best used among friends or people who appreciate the literary/cultural reference.
- Can easily sound arrogant, condescending, or pretentious if used seriously or in professional settings, especially when explaining something to someone who genuinely doesn't understand.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- The core meaning (It's obvious) is usually clear. The main risk is the tone being perceived as genuinely condescending rather than playfully referencing Holmes. People unfamiliar with the character will miss the specific cultural layer.
Examples
- Friend: How did you know I ate the last cookie? You: The crumbs on your shirt. Elementary, my dear Watson.
- (After solving a simple riddle) The answer is 'silence'. Elementary, my dear Watson.
- (Stating something very obvious) Why is the floor wet? Because it just rained, and the window was open. Elementary, my dear Watson.
Dialogue
Person A: I can't figure out why my phone isn't charging.
Person B: Is the power strip switched on? (Flips switch) There you go.
Person A: Oh! Right. Thanks.
Person B: (Smiling) Check the power source first. Elementary, my dear Watson.
Social Media Examples
- Comment on a brain teaser solution: Finally got it! The answer was right in front of me. Elementary, my dear Watson. 😂 #puzzle #brainteaser
- Replying to someone asking an obvious question: Why is the sky blue? Physics! Elementary, my dear Watson. 😉 (Link to explanation)
- Post after solving a tech issue: Fixed my wifi! Turns out restarting the router actually works. Elementary, my dear Watson. #techsupport #facepalm
Response Patterns
- Amusement/Laughter (recognizing the quote and tone).
- Playful agreement: Ah, of course! / Brilliant deduction, Holmes! / How could I have missed it?
- Mild annoyance (if the tone feels genuinely condescending).
- Rolling eyes playfully.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- After hearing it: The listener usually accepts the explanation, often with amusement at the quote.
- After saying it: The speaker might smile knowingly or briefly elaborate on the 'obvious' steps of their deduction.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's a comment made after reaching or explaining a simple conclusion.
Intonation
- Often delivered with a tone of playful confidence, mock arrogance, or feigned patience, imitating popular portrayals of Holmes.
- Emphasis usually on Elementary.
- ELEMENTARY, my dear Watson.
Generation Differences
- Widely recognized across generations due to the enduring global popularity of Sherlock Holmes in books, films, and television series.
Regional Variations
- Globally recognized, with particularly strong resonance in the UK.