A no-brainer
Meaning
A no-brainer is a decision or solution that is so obvious or easy it requires little to no thought.
Origin
The phrase "a no-brainer" burst onto the American linguistic scene in the mid-20th century, a vivid expression born from the desire for punchy, impactful language. While its precise first use is debated, it quickly gained traction, particularly in sports and business contexts. The image it conjures is almost comically simple: a task so utterly straightforward that it doesn't even require the most fundamental organ of thought—the brain itself. It perfectly encapsulated the idea of an obvious decision, a problem with an undeniable solution, making any prolonged deliberation seem utterly absurd. This informal yet powerful phrase became the ultimate shorthand for an easy choice, cementing its place in everyday conversation.
Examples
- Choosing the job with significantly higher pay and better benefits was a complete no-brainer for her.
- Once the expert explained the problem, the fix seemed like a no-brainer to everyone in the room.