a slightly easier

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a slightly easier" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing the difficulty of two tasks or situations, indicating that one is somewhat less difficult than the other. Example: "This new method is a slightly easier way to solve the problem than the previous one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Wells Fargo would have a slightly easier time.

The New York Times

Sometimes it [institutional care] has been a slightly easier option".

The Guardian

The Albert Bartlett sometimes is a slightly easier race.

The Guardian - Sport

New York's Mormons seem to have a slightly easier time finding dates and like-minded friends.

The New York Times - Sports

A victory would ensure a slightly easier opponent in the quarterfinals.

The New York Times - Sports

'But I think in some ways that Ross has a slightly easier job.

The Guardian - Sport

Brown might get a slightly easier ride if he turned up, but not Cameron, he says.

The Guardian

For those wanting a slightly easier challenge, the Vegan Carneddau is the perfect option.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Endeavor is in a slightly easier position to give back the money.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

This amplifies the fictional world, but at the cost of providing a slightly easy, cinematic backstory for Doug's later moral weakness.

The New Yorker

The former England manager Steve McClaren's first game in charge of Nottingham Forest is a slightly easier-looking encounter at home to Barnsley, while Ian Holloway's Blackpool, who offered so much to the Premier League during their brief stay, start life back in the Championship away to Hull.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two options, use "a slightly easier" to subtly suggest one is preferable without overtly stating it's significantly better. This nuanced approach is effective in recommendations or suggestions.

Common error

Avoid using "a slightly easier" when the difference is actually substantial; this can mislead the audience. Ensure the difference in ease is truly marginal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a slightly easier" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a marginal reduction in difficulty. Ludwig examples show its use in contrasting options, tasks, or situations, where one is subtly less challenging than the other. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

14%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a slightly easier" is a grammatically sound and frequently used comparative adjective phrase. It serves to indicate a marginal difference in difficulty, often to suggest a preference without strongly endorsing one option over another. Analysis of Ludwig examples reveals its common usage in News & Media, Wiki and Science contexts, and its overall neutral register makes it appropriate for diverse writing styles. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat simpler

Replaces "slightly easier" with synonyms to convey reduced complexity or effort.

a bit less challenging

Substitutes "easier" with "less challenging" to emphasize the reduced level of difficulty.

moderately less complicated

Uses "moderately" instead of "slightly" and "complicated" instead of "easier" for a more formal tone.

marginally more straightforward

Emphasizes the directness and simplicity of the alternative, using "straightforward" instead of "easier".

a shade less demanding

Replaces "easier" with "less demanding" to focus on the reduced effort required.

relatively uncomplicated

Conveys ease through the term "uncomplicated", suggesting a lack of complexity.

somewhat more accessible

Focuses on the ease of access or understanding, rather than direct difficulty.

a touch more manageable

Highlights the improved control and handling of the task or situation.

slightly less strenuous

Emphasizes the reduced physical or mental effort required.

a breeze

Idiomatic expression suggesting something very easy or effortless.

FAQs

How can I use "a slightly easier" in a sentence?

You can use "a slightly easier" to compare two options where one presents a bit less difficulty than the other. For instance, "This route is "a slightly easier" option than the mountain pass".

What phrases are similar to "a slightly easier"?

Alternatives include "somewhat simpler", "a bit less challenging", or "moderately less complicated", depending on the context and desired tone.

Is it appropriate to use "a slightly easier" in formal writing?

Yes, "a slightly easier" is generally acceptable in formal writing, but consider alternatives like "moderately less complicated" or "marginally more straightforward" for an even more polished tone.

What's the difference between "a slightly easier" and "a much easier"?

"A slightly easier" implies a small difference in difficulty, whereas "a much easier" indicates a significant difference. Use "a slightly easier" when the contrast is subtle, and "a much easier" when the contrast is substantial.