80 Other Ways to Say Something is Easy or Difficult in English

Last updated on December 6, 2024 by Isabella Claire

We often use the words “easy” and “difficult” to describe things, especially when we are talking about tasks or challenges. Usually, these are the first words that come to mind when talking or writing about a situation that is either deemed simple or complex. However, there are plenty of other ways to express the same idea! Here are some alternatives for saying something is easy or difficult.

Ways to Say Something is Easy

Something Is Easy or Difficult
Something Is Easy or Difficult – Created by 7ESL

Formal Settings to Describe Something as Easy

  1. straightforward
  2. effortless
  3. elementary
  4. trouble-free

When and How to use Formal Ways to Describe Something as Easy:

In formal settings, such as academic writing or professional presentations, it is important to use words that are more sophisticated and descriptive. It is best to use formal words like “straightforward” and “effortless” to describe something as easy. It will help your audience understand the concept in a more concise and precise way.

Informal Settings to Describe Something as Easy

  1. a breeze
  2. a piece of cake
  3. child’s play
  4. no sweat
  5. a cinch
  6. no problem

Idiomatic Expression to Describe Something as Easy

  1. like taking candy from a baby
  2. like shooting fish in a barrel
  3. a walk in the park
  4. easy peasy
  5. as easy as ABC

How to Use Some Idiomatic Ways to Say Something is Easy:

Idiomatic expressions are colorful and fun ways of expressing something. They spice up someone’s language and make it more interesting. They are often used in informal settings, such as conversations with friends or family. When saying something is easy, it might be more entertaining to use an idiom. For example, “It was like taking candy from a baby!”

Ways to Say Something is Difficult

Formal Settings to Describe Something as Difficult

  1. challenging
  2. arduous
  3. daunting
  4. onerous
  5. formidable
  6. laborious
  7. complex

When and How to Use Formal Ways to Describe Something as Difficult:

Assuming you are emailing your boss or giving a presentation to an audience, formal expressions are the way to go. These words will give your boss or audience a clear understanding of the task at hand. These words carry more weight and complexity than informal alternatives, making it easier to describe difficult tasks professionally. For example, “This was a challenging and complex task that I had to complete.”

Informal Settings to Describe Something as Difficult

  1. a pain
  2. a tough nut to crack
  3. hard slog
  4. a bear of a task
  5. a hard row to hoe
  6. a tall order

Idiomatic Expression to Describe Something as Difficult

  1. a Herculean task
  2. like pulling teeth
  3. hard as nails
  4. tougher than a bulldozer’s job
  5. like trying to find a needle in a haystack

How to Use Some Idiomatic Ways to Say Something is Difficult:

Idiomatic expressions can add flair to your language, but they can also be used to emphasize how difficult something is. They are often used to express the magnitude of the difficulty and can be a great way to add some extra emphasis. For example, “It was like trying to find a needle in a haystack.”

Alternative Ways to Say “Something is Difficult”

  1. It is not so simple.
  2. It’s a difficult task.
  3. It’s not so easy.
  4. It isn’t a walk in the park.
  5. It’s quite tough at times.
  6. It’s a very tough task.
  7. It’s a bit tricky.
  8. The course is quite demanding.
  9. The course can be gruelling at times
  10. It’s not a course for the faint-hearted.
  11. It’s nigh on impossible. (UK)
  12. It’s not the easiest ___ in the world.
  13. It’s (quite / a bit) hard going.
  14. It’s very hard.

Alternative Ways to Say “Something is Easy”

  1. It’s a snap.
  2. It’s a piece of cake.
  3. There’s nothing to it.
  4. Anyone can do it.
  5. I can do it in my sleep.
  6. I can do this with my eyes closed.
  7. It’s easy as pie / easy as a,b,c
  8. I can do it with my eyes shut.
  9. I was born doing this.
  10. It’s a doddle (UK)
  11. No problem is too big for me.
  12. Easy peasy.
  13. I can have this done before most can finish getting ready for work.
  14. I eat “programming” for breakfast.
  15. It’s a walk in the park.
  16. It’s a breeze.
  17. It’s a cinch.
  18. It’s easy as 1 2 3
  19. It’s not rocket science.
  20. This is easier than drinking water through a straw.
  21. It’s childsplay.
  22. This work is like a drop in the bucket for me.
  23. I can solve this without having to move.
  24. I can do this standing still.
  25. This work is as easy as catching leaves in a basket.
  26. I can do this with one hand tied behind my back.
  27. This is like playing paddy cake.
  28. It’s easy as the wind blows.
  29. I can do this in the dark.
  30. It’s like shooting fish in a barrel.

In conclusion, there are plenty of ways to express the idea that something is easy or difficult. Whether you are in a formal setting, an informal setting, or just having a conversation with friends, it is important to know the difference between using formal, informal, and idiomatic expressions. Hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding of when and how to use these expressions!

Latest posts by Isabella Claire (see all)