Any fool can/could…
phrase
Indicates that the task or action specified is extremely easy or obvious.
Any fool could see that he was lying.

Often appears as...
- any fool can understand
- any fool could see
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Indicates that the task or action specified is extremely easy or obvious.
Any fool could see that he was lying.

Often appears as...
- any fool can understand
- any fool could see
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1

Ease emphasis
Use the phrase to stress that something is very easy or obvious, even for someone with no expertise.

Any fool could operate this machine; it's so simple.
Sarcasm tool
The phrase might carry a tone of sarcasm, implying the other party is missing something obvious.

Any fool can see that won't work. Why can't you?
Understatement
Sometimes used to understate the intelligence required, suggesting the task is simpler than it appears.

Any fool could learn these rules, but mastering them is another story.
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