not at all easy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'not at all easy' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to illustrate something that is challenging or difficult to do, or even to mean "not easy at all". For example, "Figuring out the math problem was not at all easy".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Not at all easy.

The Guardian - Books

Still, it was not at all easy.

The New York Times - Sports

But actually it's not at all easy.

The New York Times

It's not at all easy to find what you want.

The New York Times - Food

It is not at all easy to find.

The New York Times - Food

"I'm not at all easy to live with," he says.

The Guardian - Books

And not at all easy to do, so kudos to Mr. Livengood and the J.A.S.A. class.

The New York Times

It really is not at all easy being British and black or Asian these days.

Independent

It was not at all easy in the circumstances of the period..

The New Yorker

It's not at all easy, but the least I can do is find time for her.

The New York Times

I understand that this head-on collision between interests and values is not at all easy to navigate.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not at all easy" to subtly emphasize the level of difficulty, especially when a simpler term like "difficult" might not fully convey the challenge.

Common error

While "not at all easy" is valid, avoid stacking multiple negatives. Overuse can make your writing convoluted. Choose a direct positive phrasing where possible, such as substituting "difficult" or "challenging."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not at all easy" functions as an adjectival phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun. It intensifies the lack of ease, emphasizing the difficulty of a task or situation. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its common and correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Books

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not at all easy" is a correct and commonly used expression to describe something challenging or difficult. As Ludwig AI indicates, it functions as an adjectival phrase, intensifying the difficulty level. While suitable for a range of contexts, from news reporting to scientific discussions, writers should be mindful of potential overuse of negation. Alternatives like "difficult", "challenging", or "far from easy" can provide variety and clarity. By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and stylistic nuances, you can effectively use "not at all easy" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

far from easy

Emphasizes the distance from being easy.

anything but easy

Highlights the contrary nature of the situation.

not easy in the slightest

Adds emphasis to the lack of ease.

difficult

A simpler, more direct expression of the same idea.

challenging

Focuses on the stimulating aspect of difficulty.

no walk in the park

An idiomatic expression emphasizing difficulty.

tough

A more colloquial term for difficult.

arduous

Highlights the effort and exertion required.

formidable

Emphasizes the intimidating aspect of the challenge.

not a piece of cake

Another idiomatic way to express that something is difficult.

FAQs

How can I use "not at all easy" in a sentence?

You can use "not at all easy" to describe something that presents significant difficulty or challenge. For example: "Learning a new language is "not at all easy"".

What are some alternatives to "not at all easy"?

Alternatives to "not at all easy" include "difficult", "challenging", "far from easy", or "anything but easy".

Is "not at all easy" the same as "very difficult"?

While both phrases convey difficulty, "not at all easy" can sometimes imply a slightly understated or ironic tone, whereas "very difficult" is a more direct and forceful statement of the challenge.

When is it best to use "not at all easy" instead of simpler alternatives?

Use "not at all easy" when you want to emphasize the degree of difficulty and perhaps add a touch of nuance or understatement to your description. This phrase can be more impactful than a straightforward "difficult" in certain contexts.