easy

Everyday

1. Easy means not difficult, simple to do or understand. tree →
2. Easy means comfortable and relaxed: an easy chair. tree →
3. «Take it easy» means relax and don't work too hard; «go easy on» means be gentle with. tree →

In the lessons

In school pupils say a question is easy or hard; a hard problem becomes easier when you split it into steps. In stories something that looks easy may turn out to be a trap. In safety: «easy» tricks like an easy way to make money or a free prize online are often scams. Phrases: easy as pie, easy-peasy, take it easy, go easy, easier said than done, easy-going.

Examples

• This sum is easy: two plus two is four. tree →
• Riding a bike is easy once you learn. tree →
• Take it easy; you've been working all day. tree →
• Easy-peasy, lemon squeezy! tree →
• It's easier to read with good light. tree →
• Go easy on your little brother; he's only four. tree →
• The test was easier than I expected. tree →
• Saying sorry is easier said than done. tree →
• Dear me, that is easy enough! tree →

Note

Comparison: easy, easier, easiest (y → i). The usual adverb is «easily»: «She won easily». Phrases like «take it easy» use «easy». The opposite is «hard» or «difficult». Something that is easy for you may be hard for someone else, so be kind.

In Jewish tradition

Interpretation: Proverbs says knowledge is easy for one who has discernment, which tradition takes to mean that wisdom comes to the humble who are ready to learn. In the primary lessons: In school pupils say a question is easy or hard; a hard problem becomes easier when you split it into steps. In stories something that looks easy may turn out to be a trap. In safety: «easy» tricks like an easy way to make money or a free prize online are often scams. Phrases: easy as pie, easy-peasy, take it easy, go easy, easier said than done, easy-going.

Examples

• A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not; but knowledge is easy unto him that hath discernment. (Writings PRO.14.6, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Comparison: easy, easier, easiest (y → i). The usual adverb is «easily»: «She won easily». Phrases like «take it easy» use «easy». The opposite is «hard» or «difficult». Something that is easy for you may be hard for someone else, so be kind.