rather easy

USAGE SUMMARY

"rather easy" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used as an adverb to describe something that is easier than expected or more simple than usual. For example, "The test was rather easy, so I finished early."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

UNTIL the summer, investing seemed rather easy.

The Economist

But these are rather easy marks.

The New York Times - Books

Justice Scalia says it is rather easy.

The Economist

After all, it appears rather easy to obtain shareholder approval.

The New York Times

Fortunately, with a little information, both tasks are rather easy.

The New York Times - Tech

Most, I have found, are rather easy to put down.

The Guardian

It is rather easy to do her diet without mentioning it to anyone".

The New York Times - Magazine

And that decision, according to Manager Joe Girardi, was rather easy.

The New York Times - Sports

The truth of this is rather easy to demonstrate when λ = 1.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This was rather easy in the cupboard because there is not too much room to fall".

The New York Times

But, and this is relevant, Iceland's fishing grounds are also rather easy to manage.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "rather easy" to subtly indicate that something might be simpler than initially perceived or contrary to expectations. For example, "Despite the complex setup, the actual process was rather easy."

Common error

While "rather easy" is generally acceptable, overuse in formal or academic writing can make your tone sound dismissive or lacking in rigor. Consider using more precise alternatives like "straightforward", "uncomplicated", or "manageable" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rather easy" functions primarily as an adjectival modifier, specifically as an intensifier modifying the adjective "easy". This use is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms its correctness and usability in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rather easy" is a common and grammatically sound adjectival phrase used to indicate a level of simplicity or lack of difficulty. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English, highlighting its role in softening expectations or reassuring the audience. While versatile, it's most frequent in News & Media and Science contexts, suggesting a neutral register. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "straightforward" or "uncomplicated" to maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

quite simple

Substitutes "easy" with "simple", suggesting a lack of complexity.

fairly straightforward

Replaces "easy" with "straightforward", implying a clear and uncomplicated process.

relatively undemanding

Uses "undemanding" to convey a low level of required effort.

moderately effortless

Emphasizes the lack of effort involved, using "effortless".

somewhat uncomplicated

Similar to "quite simple", highlighting the absence of complications.

reasonably manageable

Focuses on the ease with which something can be controlled or handled.

not too difficult

A more literal rephrasing, directly negating the difficulty.

comparatively light

Metaphorically describes the task as "light", suggesting minimal burden.

passably facile

Uses "facile" to indicate ease, but can sometimes imply a lack of depth.

kind of a breeze

An idiom suggesting the ease and quickness in completing something.

FAQs

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

You can use "rather easy" to describe a task, concept, or situation that is simpler or less challenging than expected. For instance, "I thought the exam would be difficult, but it was "rather easy"."

What can I say instead of "rather easy"?

Alternatives to "rather easy" include "quite simple", "fairly straightforward", or "relatively undemanding", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "rather easy" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "rather easy" might be perceived as informal in certain academic or professional contexts. Opt for more precise and sophisticated alternatives like "straightforward" or "uncomplicated" to maintain a formal tone.

What's the difference between "rather easy" and "very easy"?

"Rather easy" implies a slightly lower degree of ease compared to "very easy". While "very easy" suggests minimal effort, "rather easy" can suggest something is easier than initially anticipated or easier than a comparable task.