Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective effortless contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of effortless are easy, facile, light, simple, and smooth. While all these words mean "not demanding effort or involving difficulty," effortless stresses the appearance of ease and usually implies the prior attainment of artistry or expertness.

moving with effortless grace

Where would easy be a reasonable alternative to effortless?

While in some cases nearly identical to effortless, easy is applicable either to persons or things imposing tasks or to activity required by such tasks.

an easy college course

How are the words facile and easy related as synonyms of effortless?

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

facile answers to complex questions

When can light be used instead of effortless?

Although the words light and effortless have much in common, light stresses freedom from what is burdensome.

a light teaching load

In what contexts can simple take the place of effortless?

The words simple and effortless can be used in similar contexts, 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 effortless?

The meanings of smooth and effortless largely overlap; 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 effortless But, today, at Dior’s spring/summer 2026 show in Paris, Russell’s latest look recalled the memory of Whitney Houston’s effortless style. Essence, 1 Oct. 2025 Better yet, styling baggy jeans is effortless for fall, since the baggy fit complements the season’s oversized, layered look. India Roby, Glamour, 1 Oct. 2025 Each fragrance delivers a subtle, unexpected twist, making this sleek, sophisticated collection the perfect gift for the fragrance lover who values artistry, nuance, and effortless French elegance. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 1 Oct. 2025 But making something look effortless takes a lot of effort. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 29 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for effortless
Recent Examples of Synonyms for effortless
Adjective
  • But finding a good financial advisor isn't easy.
    Kate Dore, CFP®, EA,Kelli Grant, CFP®, CNBC, 1 Oct. 2025
  • The 44-year-old driver led the race for an impressive 159 laps, and a win seemed like an easy thing to achieve.
    Saajan Jogia, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • When shopping, look for ginger root that is firm and smooth.
    Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 4 Oct. 2025
  • Hamblin served the blended three-year-old rye finished in toasted barrel, which had a smooth, almost vanilla taste.
    Maggie Menderski, Louisville Courier Journal, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Jared Jewelers Bulova Phantom Watch A watch is both practical and fashionable, and this style adds a touch of sparkle to simple outfits.
    Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 4 Oct. 2025
  • Each year, as the temperature rises, the town’s regular population of around 300 swells with thousands of kids soaking up the simple pleasures of the great outdoors.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 4 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • This World Cup wasn’t going to be cheap to attend, but these memories for life cost so much that swathes of people can’t even toy with the idea.
    Phil Hay, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025
  • Utility executives and analysts have said clean energy projects are crucial to help power new data centers and factories, because they can be built quickly and produce electricity that is relatively cheap.
    Michael Copley, NPR, 2 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Effortless.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/effortless. Accessed 5 Oct. 2025.

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