easier to swallow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "easier to swallow" is perfectly correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to denote something that is more palatable or agreeable, usually after explaining an uncomfortable truth or difficult fact. For example: "Though it may take some time, the benefits of switching to a healthier lifestyle are much easier to swallow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But cheap debt should make the deal easier to swallow.

The New York Times

It's easier to swallow because it was your decision.

The New York Times

That may make its price tag slightly easier to swallow.

The New York Times - Tech

You're Japanese.' That made me easier to swallow.

The New York Times - Sports

But a loss with a commanding lead is a bit easier to swallow.

The New York Times

Such a holistic approach just possibly might make drug advertising easier to swallow.

The Economist

That should be easier to swallow as public awareness of the problem grows.

The Economist

In such a setting, those ludicrous prices are still ludicrous, but suddenly far easier to swallow.

The Guardian - Travel

It makes it easier to swallow from a financial standpoint, and it's less complicated".

The New York Times

But in recent months Mr. Livert's prescription costs have been easier to swallow.

The New York Times

But a mortgage is easier to swallow when it's backed by as much research as love.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "easier to swallow" when you want to suggest that something is more acceptable or agreeable, especially after presenting a difficult or unpleasant truth. For example, "The bad news is that we have to cut costs, but the good news is that these changes will be phased in, making it "easier to swallow".

Common error

Avoid using "easier to swallow" in situations where you are literally talking about swallowing something. It is primarily an idiomatic expression used to describe the acceptance of an idea or situation, not the physical act of swallowing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "easier to swallow" functions as an idiomatic expression to describe something that is more acceptable or palatable, typically after an unpleasant fact or revelation. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its use across various contexts, illustrating its flexible application.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

18%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "easier to swallow" is a common and versatile idiom used to describe something that is more acceptable or palatable, especially after difficult news or a tough decision. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. Predominantly found in news and media, it softens the impact of negative information by making it more agreeable or bearable. To effectively use this phrase, make sure it is applied to situations where you're describing ideas or decisions rather than literal objects. For example, instead of saying a pill is "easier to swallow", you might say the terms of the deal are "easier to swallow" because of certain concessions. Alternatives such as "more palatable" or "more acceptable" can be used to add nuance. Overall, "easier to swallow" is a valuable tool for conveying difficult information in a more manageable way.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more palatable

Focuses on the agreeableness of something, akin to how food is more palatable.

more acceptable

Emphasizes the agreeableness of an idea or situation.

less objectionable

Highlights a reduction in negative qualities, making something more agreeable.

more digestible

Similar to "palatable" but applicable to information or situations, not just food.

more readily believed

Highlights that something is more believable.

more easily tolerated

Focuses on the endurance aspect, where something is more bearable.

more comfortably endured

Highlights ease of endurance, carrying a nuance of passive acceptance.

more smoothly received

Emphasizes the reception of something, suggesting it is better received.

more agreeably absorbed

Focuses on the idea of assimilation, indicating something is better absorbed.

more favorably viewed

Highlights that something is seen in a more positive light.

FAQs

How can I use "easier to swallow" in a sentence?

You can use "easier to swallow" to describe something that is more acceptable or palatable, often after a difficult piece of news or information. For example: "The price increase is high, but the extended warranty makes it "easier to swallow"."

What are some alternatives to "easier to swallow"?

Alternatives include "more palatable", "more acceptable", or "less objectionable", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "easier to swallow"?

It is appropriate when you want to suggest that something is more agreeable or bearable, especially when it follows something unpleasant or difficult to accept. It's best used in contexts where you're discussing ideas, decisions, or situations, rather than physical items.

What does "easier to swallow" imply beyond just being acceptable?

The phrase "easier to swallow" implies that something was initially difficult to accept, but certain factors make it more bearable. It suggests a compromise or mitigating circumstance that makes the situation "more tolerable" or "less objectionable".