the answer is easy

USAGE SUMMARY

'the answer is easy' is a correct sentence in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to explain something simply, or when you are providing an answer to a question that is easy to understand. For example, "What is the definition of 'adjacent'? The answer is easy: adjacent means 'next to or adjoining.'".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

The answer is easy.

Forbes

But the answer is easy.

The New Yorker

The answer is easy: Yes.

The New York Times

Mostly the answer is easy.

The New Yorker

The answer is easy: we don't know.

The New York Times

The answer is easy in daylight.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

If you're under 30, the answer is easier.

The New York Times - Books

The answer is easy GrantsNet, offered through Science's Next Wave and sponsored by the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute.

Science Magazine

For "Gossip Girl," the answer was easy.

The New York Times - Arts

Clinton said that the answer was easy: "I represented New York on 9/11, when we were attacked.

The New Yorker

Looking for the answer was easy but a little messy: I had to examine the trash bins of B.Y.O.B. restaurants.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow "the answer is easy" with a concise and unambiguous explanation. Avoid complex jargon or unnecessary details that could undermine the initial claim of simplicity.

Common error

Avoid using "the answer is easy" when addressing genuinely complex or nuanced issues. This can come across as dismissive or condescending, particularly if the subsequent explanation is oversimplified or fails to acknowledge the intricacies of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the answer is easy" functions as an introductory statement to preface a solution or explanation. It signals that the information to follow is simple and straightforward, as confirmed by Ludwig and its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the answer is easy" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to introduce a simple solution or explanation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its function is to provide clarity and directness, primarily within News & Media contexts. While versatile, it's important to ensure the subsequent explanation genuinely matches the claim of simplicity to avoid misrepresenting complex situations. Alternatives like "the solution is simple" or "it's obvious" can offer similar meaning with slight variations in emphasis. The most authoritative sources consistently demonstrate its usage, reinforcing its validity in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the solution is simple

Replaces "answer" with "solution" and "easy" with "simple", emphasizing the straightforward nature of the solution.

it's easily explained

Shifts the focus to the ease of explanation rather than the answer itself.

the explanation is clear

Substitutes "answer" with "explanation" and "easy" with "clear", highlighting the clarity of the explanation.

it's obvious

Offers a shorter, more direct way of saying something is easily understood.

the reason is straightforward

Focuses on the directness of the reasoning behind something.

it's plain to see

Emphasizes the visibility and obviousness of something.

the key is simple

Replaces "answer" with "key", indicating the core element is easy to understand.

it's not rocket science

A more idiomatic way of saying something isn't complicated.

the logic is elementary

Indicates the reasoning is basic and easily grasped.

the principle is basic

Highlights the fundamental and uncomplicated nature of the principle.

FAQs

How can I use "the answer is easy" in a sentence?

You can use "the answer is easy" to introduce a simple solution or explanation. For example, "How do you solve this problem? "The answer is easy": just add water."

What are some alternatives to "the answer is easy"?

Alternatives include "the solution is simple", "it's easily explained", or "it's obvious". The best choice depends on the specific context.

When is it inappropriate to use "the answer is easy"?

It's best to avoid using "the answer is easy" when discussing complex or sensitive topics, as it might come across as dismissive or insensitive. In those cases, a more nuanced approach is better.

Is "the answer is easy" always a correct statement?

While grammatically correct, whether "the answer is easy" is factually accurate depends entirely on the situation. Be sure the solution or explanation you provide is actually straightforward and easily understood.