taking it easy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking it easy" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe taking a relaxed approach or attitude to something. For example: "I'm not going to rush to finish this project, I'm just going to take it easy and do my best."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But taking it easy?

The Guardian - Sport

title, will you be taking it easy?

The New York Times - Magazine

Sound like he's taking it easy?

Stanford University

I've been taking it easy and relaxing.

Independent

They are taking it easy here.

The Guardian

"As I was coming back, I was taking it easy taking it easy," Pettitte said.

The New York Times - Sports

In the meantime, Harper said, "I'm just taking it easy.

The New Yorker

So does Isobel want him to start taking it easy?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

You don't get anywhere by taking it easy.

The Guardian - Sport

He is sore and is taking it easy.

The New York Times - Sports

Basically, I'm just taking it easy in life.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "taking it easy" to convey a deliberate choice to reduce effort or stress, especially when recovering from exertion or illness. For example: "After the marathon, I'm planning on taking it easy for a week."

Common error

Avoid using "taking it easy" when the situation calls for diligence or urgency. It's not appropriate when describing a critical task requiring full attention and effort. It doesn't mean ignoring responsibilities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking it easy" primarily functions as an idiomatic expression. It commonly serves as a verbal phrase, indicating a state of relaxation, reduced activity, or avoidance of stress. Ludwig AI's examples showcase its use in various contexts, from recovering from physical exertion to simply enjoying leisure time.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "taking it easy" is a common and generally acceptable idiomatic expression used to describe a relaxed approach, often after a period of exertion or during leisure time. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts. While primarily informal, its meaning is readily understood, making it a versatile phrase for everyday communication. Remember to reserve the phrase for informal or relaxed contexts, opting for more formal alternatives in professional settings. As shown by Ludwig, understanding the context is the key to using it correctly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relaxing

Focuses specifically on reducing tension and stress.

slowing down

Emphasizes reducing pace or activity level.

chilling out

An informal way to describe relaxing and enjoying oneself.

taking a break

Highlights a temporary cessation of activity to rest.

resting

Implies inactivity for the purpose of regaining strength or energy.

taking time off

Suggests a more extended period of rest or vacation.

goofing off

Suggests avoiding work and being unproductive.

loafing around

Indicates lazy and aimless activity.

taking a sabbatical

Refers to a longer period of leave, usually from work or academia.

behaving calmly

Focuses on maintaining composure and avoiding stress.

FAQs

How can I use "taking it easy" in a sentence?

You can use "taking it easy" to describe relaxing and avoiding stress. For example, "I'm "taking it easy" this weekend after a busy week at work".

What's a more formal way to say "taking it easy"?

While "taking it easy" is generally understood, more formal alternatives include "resting", "recuperating", or "reducing activity levels" depending on the specific context. For example: "The doctor advised him to reduce his activity levels after the surgery".

Is it appropriate to say "taking it easy" in a professional setting?

It depends on the context. In casual conversation with colleagues, it might be acceptable. However, in formal reports or presentations, it's best to use more professional language such as "minimizing workload" or "prioritizing recovery".

What's the difference between "taking it easy" and "taking it slowly"?

"Taking it easy" generally implies reducing stress and relaxing, while "taking it slowly" suggests proceeding at a deliberate, unhurried pace. The former is about reducing effort; the latter is about managing pace.