clear sailing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clear sailing" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where there are no obstacles or difficulties, often in the context of a plan or journey proceeding smoothly. Example: "After resolving the initial issues, we finally had clear sailing for the rest of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

So it's clear sailing ahead, right?

The New York Times

It ought to be clear sailing after that.

The New Yorker

Union Rags needs clear sailing and ample ground to reach maximum cruising speed.

The New York Times

Even without her challengers, it will not be clear sailing for Mrs. Merkel.

The New York Times

If you already subscribe, all you have to do is sign in and it's clear sailing.

The New Yorker

Most of the French Open favorites in action found clear sailing Wednesday.

The New York Times

"I feel like that will give me another five years of clear sailing".

The New York Times

The year before it was clear sailing for "Titanic" all the way.

The New York Times

Then he is clear, sailing out over the jungle and the shanty towns.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Goc's goal came with 3 28 left in regulation, not long after Devils defenseman Marek Zidlicky was called for a delay-of-game penalty when his attempted clear sailed into the stands without hitting the glass.

The New York Times - Sports

The lack of a challenge against existing online lotteries from the Justice Department has given hope to other states that they will have clear legal sailing.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clear sailing" to indicate that a project, plan, or situation is progressing without difficulties or obstacles. It's particularly effective when contrasting a current smooth state with a previously troubled one.

Common error

Avoid using "clear sailing" to suggest that a situation is permanently free of challenges. It usually implies a temporary state of ease rather than a guarantee of future success. It's important to remain vigilant even when things seem to be progressing smoothly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clear sailing" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically acting as a noun phrase or adverbial modifier. It describes a situation or period characterized by a lack of obstacles or difficulties. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Science

1%

Academia

0%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "clear sailing" is a common idiomatic phrase that describes a situation free from obstacles or difficulties. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage in writing. As evidenced by numerous examples from reputable sources like The New York Times and Forbes, it's frequently used in news and media to convey optimism about progress. The phrase functions as a noun or adverbial modifier and carries a neutral register. Alternatives such as "smooth sailing" and "plain sailing" offer similar meanings. When using "clear sailing", it's important to imply a temporary state of ease and be mindful of potentially misunderstanding the overall scope of the situation at hand.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

smooth sailing

This is a very common synonym, almost perfectly interchangeable, emphasizing the ease and lack of problems.

plain sailing

Similar to "smooth sailing", but may imply a task is straightforward and requires little effort.

easy ride

This phrase focuses on the effortless nature of progress.

unobstructed path

This highlights the absence of barriers or obstacles to progress.

free passage

Emphasizes the ability to move forward without impediment.

no obstacles in sight

This is a more descriptive alternative, directly stating the lack of challenges.

easy street

Implies a comfortable and problem-free existence or journey.

walk in the park

An informal idiom suggesting something is very easy to accomplish.

no speed bumps

Suggests a route without minor disruptions or setbacks.

downhill from here

Implies that the most difficult part is over, and what remains will be easy.

FAQs

How can I use "clear sailing" in a sentence?

You can use "clear sailing" to describe a situation where progress is easy and unobstructed. For example: "After the initial setbacks, the project had "smooth sailing"".

What's a good alternative to "clear sailing"?

Alternatives include "smooth sailing", "plain sailing", or "easy ride", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "clear sailing" formal or informal?

"Clear sailing" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although "smooth sailing" might be slightly more versatile.

What does "clear sailing" imply about the future?

While "clear sailing" suggests a current absence of obstacles, it doesn't guarantee future success. It's important to remain prepared for potential challenges even when things are going well.