easier times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "easier times" is correct and usable in written English.
It is generally used to refer to a period of time that was more pleasant or easier to manage than the present situation. For example: "I remember the days when things were simpler and life seemed like it was passing by during easier times."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Liberation Day did not bring easier times.

The Guardian

Family photographs arranged throughout their living room depict easier times.

The New York Times

Existing schools tend to have excellent sites, acquired in easier times.

The Economist

Wellbeing, the message from both main parties suggests, is a luxury for easier times.

The Guardian

That seems like an oversight as we head towards potentially easier times for UK consumers.

The Guardian - Business

Némirovsky's profound understanding of instability challenges those who live in easier times.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

He has an easier time at it.

Independent

Wells Fargo would have a slightly easier time.

The New York Times

Hingis had an easier time.

The New York Times - Sports

Chiarelli had an easier time after the Bruins' 2011 title.

The New York Times - Sports

Clement, you suspect, had the easier time of it.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evoking nostalgia, use "easier times" to create a contrast with present difficulties, enhancing the emotional impact of your writing.

Common error

Be mindful not to over-glorify the past. Acknowledge that while some aspects may have been easier, other challenges likely existed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "easier times" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as an object of a preposition or as a subject complement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used to refer to a period that was more pleasant or manageable than the current situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "easier times" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe past periods characterized by reduced difficulty or increased simplicity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently found in News & Media, encyclopedias, and Wiki sources. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, writers should be mindful of romanticizing the past and acknowledge potential challenges of the "easier times" being referenced. Alternatives like ""simpler days"" or "less challenging periods" can offer nuanced variations, depending on the specific context and intended emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more comfortable days

Focuses on the comfort level of past days.

less challenging periods

Highlights the reduced level of challenges experienced.

simpler days

Emphasizes the simplicity of a past era.

golden age

Refers to a past period of prosperity and happiness.

happier moments in the past

Highlights pleasant experiences from bygone periods.

days of ease

Focuses on the ease and lack of difficulty.

more prosperous eras

Highlights economic success of a previous time.

times of tranquility

Emphasizes calmness and peace from the past.

less stressful periods

Focuses on the reduced stress levels.

bygone days of comfort

Highlights past days that featured comfort.

FAQs

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

You can use "easier times" to refer to a past period that was less problematic than the present. For example, "During those "simpler days", life seemed less complicated than it does now".

What are some alternative phrases to "easier times"?

Alternatives include phrases like ""simpler days"", "more comfortable days", or "less challenging periods", all of which convey a similar sentiment of a more manageable past.

Is it appropriate to use "easier times" in formal writing?

While "easier times" is generally acceptable, consider the specific context. In highly formal or academic writing, more precise language might be preferred. In most news or general writing, it's perfectly suitable.

What connotations does the phrase "easier times" carry?

The phrase generally carries connotations of nostalgia and a longing for a less complicated or stressful past. It can also subtly imply dissatisfaction with the present.