Definition of easynext
1
2
3
4
as in soft
tolerant and kind in the judgment of and expectations for others despite her easy approach to discipline, she had a remarkably well-behaved class

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

easy

2 of 2

adverb

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective easy contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of easy are effortless, facile, light, simple, and smooth. While all these words mean "not demanding effort or involving difficulty," easy is applicable either to persons or things imposing tasks or to activity required by such tasks.

an easy college course

When is effortless a more appropriate choice than easy?

Although the words effortless and easy have much in common, effortless stresses the appearance of ease and usually implies the prior attainment of artistry or expertness.

moving with effortless grace

How do facile and easy relate to one another?

Facile often adds to easy the connotation of undue haste or shallowness.

facile answers to complex questions

In what contexts can light take the place of easy?

The meanings of light and easy largely overlap; however, light stresses freedom from what is burdensome.

a light teaching load

When might simple be a better fit than easy?

The synonyms simple and easy are sometimes interchangeable, but simple stresses ease in understanding or dealing with because complication is absent.

a simple problem in arithmetic

When is it sensible to use smooth instead of easy?

In some situations, the words smooth and easy are roughly equivalent. However, smooth stresses the absence or removal of all difficulties, hardships, or obstacles.

a smooth ride

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of easy
Adjective
The ongoing boom in that class of drugs should continue to drive value to Eli Lilly, particularly as the company releases new GLP-1s with easier delivery methods. Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 15 Sep. 2026 Of course, defining revenue is easier said than done, but if the NBA, NHL and NFL can do it, so can MLB through the use of independent accounting firms. Jim Bowden, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
Adverb
That makes the decision about whether to draft a quarterback next year easy. Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 17 Aug. 2026 Grab the shoes in a stunning mustard tone, ruby red, or easy-to-style neutrals. Kyra Surgent, InStyle, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for easy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for easy
Adjective
  • Underpinning this assessment is the fact that disagreements between the two nations have gradually expanded beyond simple tariff disputes.
    , CNBC, 9 Sep. 2026
  • In simple terms, cherry juice targets the muscle inflammation caused by exercise, known as oxidative stress.
    Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The 49ers don’t have a deep defensive tackle room and are susceptible against the run, but if the 49ers’ offense can force opponents into passing scripts, Morris’ defense has a chance to surprise.
    Ted Nguyen, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
  • Those navigating the market without the requisite knowledge or information are susceptible to potential outlier losses.
    David Capablanca, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The rooms are compact but comfortable, and each floor features a different art exhibit.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Sep. 2026
  • While there is a spooky atmosphere and discomforting imagery throughout, the relationship between the three main characters is central — something Curcio and his co-writer (and wife) Kirby Gladstein were comfortable taking a chance on.
    William Earl, Variety, 17 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Bronwyn’s mother, Muzzy, who was lambasted all of last season for being cold and arguably cruel to her daughter, is notably softer in her first scene back — though the bob is as cunty as ever.
    Tom Smyth, Vulture, 17 Sep. 2026
  • During our time there, we were treated to a three-course chef’s tasting menu that was a paean to the summer; think a profusion of tomatoes, stone fruit, local soft cheeses, and edible flowers.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Sep. 2026
Adverb
  • For dogs that stress out easily or suffer from anxiety, these collars could also increase their stress levels when left on too long.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 18 Sep. 2026
  • The inviting throw is ideal for curling up under while binging Halloween movies or hunkering down on football Sundays, and adds a fun fall feel to your space that can easily transition into winter decorating.
    Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 18 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The teams that will be ready for whatever AI does next aren’t the ones who arrived knowing the most.
    Brittany Murrey, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2026
  • For an industry that seemed ready for widespread adoption, the legislative pushback could have serious implications for the future of the technology.
    Alex Vuocolo, Fortune, 15 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • When the most senior people in the room ask the naive question first, everyone else gets permission to keep growing in public.
    Brittany Murrey, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2026
  • Turns out the two had a rather close bond, as Elia was very politically savvy compared to the naïve Rhaegar.
    Rafael Motamayor, Vulture, 15 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Buffett made substantial charitable donations during his lifetime.
    Chris Isidore, CNN Money, 18 Sep. 2026
  • The victims often involved charitable or civic organizations that obtained insurance from Kolenda and Hole-in-Won for one or more prizes at an event, officials said.
    Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 18 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Easy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/easy. Accessed 19 Sep. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!