smooth sailing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "smooth sailing" is both grammatically correct and widely used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a period of time where one is free of trouble and experiencing success. For example: "We've been having smooth sailing since we implemented the new system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Suddenly, it's smooth sailing.

The New York Times

Then it's smooth sailing.

The New York Times - Food

"It's been smooth sailing".

The New York Times

From there, smooth sailing.

The New York Times

It's not all smooth sailing.

The New York Times

Otherwise, it was smooth sailing.

The Washington Post

Oh, all isn't smooth sailing.

The New York Times

It hasn't always been smooth sailing.

The New York Times

It hasn't all been smooth sailing.

The New York Times - Arts

It should have been smooth sailing.

The New York Times

That alone could ensure smooth sailing.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "smooth sailing". While widely understood, it may not be appropriate for highly formal or technical writing.

Common error

Avoid using "smooth sailing" in very formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional language to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "smooth sailing" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically used as a noun phrase following a linking verb to describe a situation or process that is progressing easily and without difficulties. Ludwig provides examples showing it often appears after phrases like "it was" or "it's been".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Smooth sailing" is a common and grammatically correct idiomatic phrase used to describe a situation or process that is progressing without difficulties. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used in written English to convey optimism and assurance. While suitable for most contexts, it may be less appropriate for highly formal or technical writing. Alternatives such as "easy ride" or "effortless progress" can be used in more formal settings. The phrase frequently appears in News & Media and less so in academic or scientific contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

plain sailing

Similar to the original phrase, emphasizing the absence of difficulties, with a slightly different nautical origin.

without a hitch

Indicates that something occurred smoothly, with no unexpected problems.

no bumps in the road

Focuses on the absence of difficulties or obstacles encountered during a process or activity.

easy ride

Focuses on the ease and lack of obstacles in a journey or process.

problem-free

Highlights the absence of any issues or complications.

walk in the park

Emphasizes the easiness of something, likening it to a simple and enjoyable activity.

piece of cake

Indicates something is very easy to accomplish.

no trouble

Highlights the absence of problems or difficulties.

effortless progress

Stresses the ease and seamlessness of advancement.

easy task

Conveys simplicity of action and no problems encountered.

FAQs

How can I use "smooth sailing" in a sentence?

You can use "smooth sailing" to describe a situation progressing without problems, as in "After the initial setup, it was "smooth sailing"".

What's a more formal alternative to "smooth sailing"?

For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "effortless progress", "seamless advancement", or "unimpeded success" instead of "smooth sailing".

Is it correct to say "smooth sailing ahead"?

Yes, "smooth sailing ahead" is a correct and commonly used variation, suggesting a positive outlook for the future. Similar to "It was "smooth sailing ahead"".

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "smooth sailing"?

Avoid using "smooth sailing" in serious or somber contexts where a lighthearted expression would be insensitive. Choose language that reflects the gravity of the situation.