Definition of Easy (meaning 1 of 2 — adjective)
Quick Meaning of Easy
Something that doesn't take much effort or is simple to do. The opposite of hard or difficult.
Detailed Definition of Easy
Not difficult; requiring little effort, skill, or difficulty to do or understand.
How to Pronounce Easy
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: Sounds like 'EE-zee'. The first syllable rhymes with 'see'; the second with 'tree'.
Watch out: Sometimes mispronounced as 'aze-ee' instead of 'ee-zee'.
Other Meanings of Easy
“Easy” has 2 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 1:
#2 Easy as an adjective
Describes a person who is calm, relaxed, and not stiff or serious; or a situation that feels comfortable and natural.
easy manner
Origin and Etymology of Easy
From Old French 'aisie', meaning 'comfortable' or 'at ease'.
How to Use Easy in a Sentence
Each example shows “easy” in the meaning “Something that doesn't take much effort or is…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The math problem was easy to solve.”
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“Learning to ride a bike is not easy at first.”
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“The exam questions were surprisingly easy this year.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Easy
Common Synonyms for Easy
Smart Synonyms for Easy — When to Use Each
- simple
- when describing something with no complicated parts or
- effortless
- when it requires very little effort or seems
Antonyms of Easy
Common Collocations with Easy
These phrases pair with “easy” in everyday English:
- easy to do
- easy task
- take the easy way
- easy answer
- easy mistake
Common Mistakes When Using Easy
Even fluent speakers slip up with “easy”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: This question is easy to understanding it.
- ✓ Correct: This question is easy to understand.
- Why: Use the base infinitive 'understand' after 'to', not the gerund 'understanding', and omit the repeated object pronoun 'it'.
- ✗ Wrong: The test was easy, so it easy for me.
- ✓ Correct: The test was easy, so it was easy for me.
- Why: Always use the verb 'was' in the second clause; don't omit the auxiliary verb.
Other Forms of Easy
Frequently Asked Questions About Easy
What is the meaning of "Easy"?
Something that doesn't take much effort or is simple to do. The opposite of hard or difficult.
How do you pronounce "Easy"?
The IPA is /ˈiːzi/. Sounds like 'EE-zee'. The first syllable rhymes with 'see'; the second with 'tree'.
What part of speech is "Easy"?
"Easy" is an adjective at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Easy"?
Common synonyms include simple, uncomplicated, effortless.
How do you use "Easy" in a sentence?
For example: "The math problem was easy to solve."