easy
Definitions
Not difficult; achieved without great effort
容易的；不难的
Relaxed, comfortable, and free from worry or pressure
安逸的；自在的，从容的
(informal) in a gentle, careful, or relaxed way; without hurry or force
（非正式）轻松地；从容地，小心地
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedeasy is the adjective form of ease, on its 'no effort' side: something easy takes no work. It also leans on the 'comfort' side in phrases like an easy life or an easy chair (relaxed, untroubled). Informally it doubles as an adverb where you'd expect easily: take it easy, go easy on me.
Root ease still carries 8 more wordsUsage Guide
- The standard adverb is 'easily,' but 'easy' is used adverbially in set phrases: take it easy (relax), go easy on someone (be lenient), easier said than done, easy come easy go.
- easy on the eyes/ears = pleasant to look at / listen to.
- Don't say 'I can do it easy' in formal writing — use 'easily.' The bare 'easy' adverb is conversational only.
Example Sentences
- 1.
The instructions were easy to follow.
- 2.
He prefers an easy, unhurried life by the sea.
- 3.
Take it easy — there's no need to rush.
- 4.
Go easy on her; she's had a hard week.
Synonym Comparison
- easy — broadest; not difficult, or relaxed/comfortable
- simple — few parts, uncomplicated (a simple design); not always 'effortless'
- effortless — done so smoothly it looks like no work at all (often praise)
- straightforward — clear and direct, no hidden tricks; about clarity, not difficulty
- light — small in demand: light work, a light schedule