easy question

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "easy question" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to an inquiry that is quick and straightforward to answer. For example, "Is the capital of California Sacramento? That's an easy question!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not an easy question.

The New York Times

Easy question - my kids.

The Guardian - Music

The easy question first.

The New York Times

That's an easy question.

The Guardian

That's not an easy question.

The New Yorker

He has never asked an easy question.

The New Yorker

Not an easy question to answer.

The New York Times - Arts

For me, that's not an easy question.

The New York Times

For most people, it's an easy question.

The New York Times

THARP -- This is not an easy question.

The New York Times - Arts

That's not an easy question to answer.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "easy question" to indicate that a question is not complex and requires a straightforward answer, which can help set expectations for the respondent. For instance, begin a quiz with, "Let's start with an "easy question" to build confidence."

Common error

Avoid overusing "easy question" in formal or academic writing, as it can sometimes come across as condescending or dismissive. In such contexts, consider alternatives like "straightforward question" or "basic inquiry" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "easy question" primarily functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "easy" modifies the noun "question". It is used to describe a question that is simple and requires little effort to answer. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples where the phrase is used to preface or characterize inquiries.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "easy question" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to describe a question that is simple and straightforward. As Ludwig AI validates, it functions as a noun phrase, with the adjective "easy" modifying the noun "question". It's communicative purpose is to indicate a lack of complexity, reassure the respondent or set a tone of simplicity. While generally neutral in register, it leans toward informal and is frequently found in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context and audience to avoid any unintended condescension.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

simple question

Replaces "easy" with "simple", indicating a lack of complexity.

uncomplicated question

Highlights the absence of complexity or difficulty.

straightforward question

Emphasizes the direct and uncomplicated nature of the question.

clear-cut question

Indicates a question with a distinct and unambiguous answer.

accessible question

Emphasizes that the question is easy to understand and answer by almost anyone.

elementary question

Suggests a basic or fundamental level of understanding is required.

basic question

Similar to "elementary", implying a foundational level of inquiry.

undemanding question

Focuses on the minimal effort required to answer the question.

effortless question

Suggests that answering the question requires very little exertion.

painless question

Implies the question is not only easy to answer but also agreeable or pleasant.

FAQs

How can I use "easy question" in a sentence?

You can use "easy question" to describe a question that doesn't require much thought or effort to answer. For example, "The first question on the test was an "easy question", designed to boost our confidence."

What can I say instead of "easy question"?

You can use alternatives like "simple question", "straightforward question", or "basic question" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "easy question" or "easily question"?

"Easy question" is the correct phrase, as "easy" is an adjective describing the noun "question". "Easily question" is grammatically incorrect in this context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "easy question"?

It's appropriate to use "easy question" in informal conversations, quizzes, or when you want to assure someone that a question isn't difficult. Avoid using it in formal or professional settings where it might sound condescending.