an easy problem

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an easy problem" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a problem that is simple to solve or understand. Example: "This is an easy problem that can be solved with basic algebra."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's not an easy problem".

The New Yorker

This becomes an easy problem.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It is not an easy problem.

University of California, Berkeley

This is not an easy problem.

Harvard University

That's not an easy problem to solve.

The Guardian - Opinion

Because it's an easy problem to put together.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

And it's not an easy problem, no question about it.

The New York Times

This would be an easy problem to solve.

The New York Times

To me, Mike Tyson is an easy problem.

The New Yorker

"This should be such an easy problem to head off.

The Guardian

"This is not an easy problem to solve," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an easy problem", ensure the context clearly establishes why the problem is considered easy. Providing specific reasons or comparisons can enhance clarity and prevent misinterpretations.

Common error

Avoid labeling a problem as "an easy problem" without considering the audience's perspective. What seems easy to one person may be challenging to another. Instead, acknowledge potential difficulties and offer specific steps or explanations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an easy problem" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective "easy" modifies the noun "problem". It typically serves to characterize a task or situation as being uncomplicated and readily resolvable, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

29%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an easy problem" is a commonly used and grammatically sound way to describe a task or issue that presents minimal difficulty. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase functions as a noun phrase, characterizing a situation as uncomplicated. While suitable for various contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Science, it's crucial to ensure that the perceived simplicity aligns with the audience's understanding to avoid misinterpretations. Alternatives like "a straightforward problem" or "a simple problem" can offer nuanced variations, depending on the intended emphasis. Remember to justify the claim of simplicity with concrete reasons to enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a straightforward problem

Replaces 'easy' with 'straightforward', emphasizing the lack of complexity.

a simple problem

Uses 'simple' instead of 'easy', highlighting the basic nature of the problem.

an uncomplicated problem

Emphasizes the absence of complexities or confusing elements.

a manageable problem

Focuses on the ability to handle the problem with relative ease.

a readily solvable problem

Highlights the quick and uncomplicated nature of finding a solution.

a painless problem

Suggests the problem can be resolved without much effort or negative consequence.

a trivial problem

Indicates the problem is of little significance or difficulty.

a no-brainer problem

Implies the solution is obvious and requires minimal thought.

a cinch to solve

Indicates the problem is very easy to resolve

a piece of cake

A more informal way of saying the problem is easy to deal with.

FAQs

How can I use "an easy problem" in a sentence?

You can use "an easy problem" to describe a task or issue that is simple to resolve, such as: "Finding a replacement was "an easy problem" since the part was readily available."

What are some alternatives to "an easy problem"?

You can use alternatives like "a simple issue", "a straightforward challenge", or "a manageable task" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to describe a complex issue as "an easy problem"?

No, it's not appropriate. Describing a complex issue as "an easy problem" can be misleading and dismissive. It's better to acknowledge the complexity and address it accordingly.

What is the difference between "an easy problem" and "a simple problem"?

While both phrases are similar, "a simple problem" may emphasize the basic nature of the problem, while "an easy problem" highlights the lack of difficulty in solving it. They are often interchangeable, but the nuance depends on the context.