it has been easy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it has been easy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or task that has not required much effort or difficulty over a period of time. Example: "Despite the challenges we faced, it has been easy to adapt to the new software."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He had left the entourage on its way to France, and, despite reported visits to Leonardo, it has been easy to assume a serious break.

The New Yorker

— but none of it has been easy.

The New York Times - Sports

Not that it has been easy.

The New York Times

But none of it has been easy.

The Guardian

"It has been easy in a sense," he said.

The New York Times

But then, none of it has been easy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It has been easy to overlook Ward throughout his career.

The New York Times - Sports

Either way, it has been easy to feel a little disoriented this holiday weekend.

Independent

None of which is to say that it has been easy for Trump.

Independent

It has been easy to root for and champion such dedication.

The New York Times - Sports

"It has been easy for people to see his designs as beautiful but extreme".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it has been easy" to describe processes, tasks, or adjustments that haven't presented significant obstacles over a period. For example, "Since implementing the new system, "it has been easy" to track inventory."

Common error

Avoid using "it has been easy" in highly formal or academic writing where a more sophisticated vocabulary might be expected. Consider alternatives like "it presented minimal challenges" or "it required limited resources".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it has been easy" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action was performed or a state was achieved. Ludwig AI confirms its usability for portraying situations requiring little effort over time.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it has been easy" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that something has not been difficult over a period. According to Ludwig, it's most frequently found in news and media contexts. While versatile, it’s important to consider the formality of the context and choose alternative phrasing when necessary to avoid sounding dismissive or simplistic. Consider more formal alternatives like "it presented minimal challenges" for academic or business settings. By understanding its nuances and usage patterns, you can effectively use "it has been easy" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it has been simple

Replaces "easy" with "simple", emphasizing lack of complexity.

it has been straightforward

Highlights the direct and uncomplicated nature of something.

it was not difficult

Focuses on the absence of difficulty rather than explicitly stating ease.

it has been effortless

Emphasizes the lack of required effort.

it presented no difficulty

Similar to 'it was not difficult', but slightly more formal.

it has been a breeze

Uses an idiomatic expression to convey ease.

it has been a piece of cake

Similar to 'it has been a breeze'; an informal, idiomatic expression.

it has posed no challenge

Highlights the absence of obstacles or difficulties.

it has required little effort

Focuses on the minimal effort needed.

it has been undemanding

Indicates that something requires little in the way of effort or skill.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it has been easy" to sound more formal?

Consider using alternatives like "it presented minimal challenges", "it required limited resources", or "it proved straightforward" to maintain a professional tone.

Is there a difference between saying "it has been easy" and "it was easy"?

"It has been easy" implies the ease has persisted over a period of time, while "it was easy" refers to a specific past instance. For example, "It has been easy to adapt to the new software since the training" versus "It was easy to install the software yesterday."

What's a more casual way to say "it has been easy"?

Informal alternatives include "it was a breeze", "it was a piece of cake", or simply "it was easy". These options are suitable for everyday conversation.

When should I avoid using the phrase "it has been easy"?

Avoid using "it has been easy" when you want to emphasize the significant effort involved or when addressing someone who might perceive the situation as challenging. It could minimize the achievement or downplay difficulties.