easier on the eyes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "easier on the eyes" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to something that looks pleasant and visually appealing. For example, you might say, "This new website design is much easier on the eyes than the previous one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Don't worry, the Pacers know they are in for a long, draining series -- "a dogfight," said Reggie Miller -- and one that will be infinitely easier on the eyes.

The New York Times - Sports

It even provides light-blue note pads and charts, which are easier on the eyes than the traditional white ones.

The New York Times

The eye reads from left to right, so left-justifying your text makes it easier on the eyes.

WikiHow

Live 3-D can be easier on the eyes.

The New York Times

Its form is simpler, and it's easier on the eyes.

The New York Times

Windows 95 is easier on the eyes as well as the brain.

The Economist

It is easier on the eyes and mind and usually more stimulating of thoughtful response.

The New York Times - Arts

Even that vat of noxious slurry idling in the barn is easier on the eyes.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

The division's most easy-on-the-eye midfielder, a real talent.

The Guardian - Sport

You can flick through pages, zoom in to read them as they were printed, or bring up easier-on-the-eyes text versions of stories.

The Guardian

The brindle mixes are easier on the eye than the glaring cream kind called Cotswold.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "easier on the eyes" when describing visual elements (like website designs, text formatting, or color schemes) that are designed for comfortable and prolonged viewing.

Common error

Avoid using "easier on the eyes" to describe non-visual experiences, such as sounds or tastes. The phrase is specifically related to visual appeal and comfort. Instead use phrases like "easier on the ears" or "more palatable" for other senses.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "easier on the eyes" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun, describing something that is visually appealing or less straining to look at. Ludwig examples show it used in contexts ranging from website design to physical objects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Wiki

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "easier on the eyes" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something visually appealing and comfortable. According to Ludwig, its use spans various contexts, from website design to physical objects, primarily appearing in News & Media. The phrase functions as an adjective, expressing approval and preference for a visual aspect, and maintains a neutral register suitable for general discussions. When using this phrase, ensure it relates to visual comfort and appeal, avoiding its application to non-visual senses. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "aesthetically pleasing". In essence, "easier on the eyes" is a reliable and widely understood way to convey visual pleasantness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Easy to look at

Simplifies the phrasing while retaining the core meaning.

Pleasing to the eye

Similar in meaning, but uses a slightly more formal tone.

More visually appealing

Focuses specifically on the visual attractiveness, omitting the aspect of ease or comfort.

Gentle on the eyes

Emphasizes the softness and lack of harshness in the visual experience.

Less visually straining

Highlights the reduction of strain on the eyes, rather than aesthetic appeal.

Aesthetically pleasing

Highlights the aesthetic quality, potentially suggesting a higher artistic value.

Kind to the eyes

Implies a beneficial or gentle quality for the viewer's eyes.

Visually comfortable

Emphasizes the comfort aspect of viewing.

Visually undemanding

Focuses on the lack of visual demand or effort required.

Not hard to look at

Uses a double negative to convey the ease of viewing, which can sound less direct.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is described as "easier on the eyes"?

It means that something is visually pleasing, comfortable, or less straining to look at. It implies that the design or presentation is aesthetically appealing and doesn't cause visual fatigue.

How can I use "easier on the eyes" in a sentence?

You might say, "The new color scheme of the website is much "easier on the eyes" than the old one" or "Switching to dark mode on my phone is "easier on the eyes", especially at night."

What are some alternatives to saying "easier on the eyes"?

You can use alternatives like "more visually appealing", "pleasing to the eye", or "easy to look at" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "easier on the eyes" in formal writing?

While "easier on the eyes" is generally acceptable, in highly formal contexts, you might opt for a more sophisticated phrasing like "aesthetically pleasing" or "visually comfortable". However, in most business or news-related contexts, it's perfectly suitable.