Easy peasy
Meaning
Extremely simple, effortless, or uncomplicated to do.
Origin
The delightful, rhyming phrase 'easy peasy' emerged from the playful spirit of mid-20th century British English, though its precise birth remains shrouded in playground whispers. This catchy expression is a prime example of reduplication, a linguistic trick that pairs rhyming words to create an immediately memorable and often childishly simple feel. While no single inventor can claim credit, its widespread adoption, particularly amongst children and in informal settings, suggests it likely bubbled up from schoolyards and casual conversation, a lighthearted and emphatic way to declare any task utterly effortless.
Examples
- Learning to ride a bike was easy peasy once I got the hang of balancing on two wheels.
- Don't worry about assembling the new bookshelf; the instructions are so clear, it will be easy peasy.