The scientist's new theory was so elegant that he could explain it all in just a few minutes.
What is the meaning of the word "elegant" in the sentence above?

Question

The scientist's new theory was so elegant that he could explain it all in just a few minutes.
What is the meaning of the word "elegant" in the sentence above?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If a theory is "elegant" it is simple and easy to understand and could thus be explained in a short amount of time.
Unusual is incorrect. From context we can infer that an unusual theory and the amount of time needed to explain it are not necessarily related. 
Confusing is incorrect. From context, we can infer that a confusing theory would not be be easily explained in five minutes. 
Awkward is incorrect. When placed in the target sentence, the word "awkward" does not make sense.

The Scientist's New Theory Was So Elegant That He Could Explain