Take the easy way out
phrase
To choose the simplest, easiest, or least challenging way to deal with a problem, often avoiding much needed work or effort.
When it came to studying for the exam, he decided to take the easy way out and cheat instead.
Often appears as...
- decide to take the easy way out
- rather take the easy way out
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To avoid a difficult or unpleasant situation, often by behaving in a way that is not brave or responsible.
She could have faced her problems, but instead she took the easy way out.
Often appears as...
- chose to take the easy way out
- opt to take the easy way out
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To choose the simplest, easiest, or least challenging way to deal with a problem, often avoiding much needed work or effort.
When it came to studying for the exam, he decided to take the easy way out and cheat instead.
Often appears as...
- decide to take the easy way out
- rather take the easy way out
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
phrase
To avoid a difficult or unpleasant situation, often by behaving in a way that is not brave or responsible.
She could have faced her problems, but instead she took the easy way out.
Often appears as...
- chose to take the easy way out
- opt to take the easy way out
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
The phrase often implies a judgment or criticism, suggesting laziness or lack of commitment.
He took the easy way out by copying his friend's project.
Pro Tip 2/3Casual Conversations
Commonly used in informal dialogues and can be considered too casual for formal writing.
I can't believe she just took the easy way out and quit.
Pro Tip 3/3Avoiding Conflict
Sometimes used when someone does not want to confront a difficult situation or conversation.
Instead of arguing, he took the easy way out and agreed.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
The phrase often implies a judgment or criticism, suggesting laziness or lack of commitment.
He took the easy way out by copying his friend's project.
Pro Tip 2/3Casual Conversations
Commonly used in informal dialogues and can be considered too casual for formal writing.
I can't believe she just took the easy way out and quit.
Pro Tip 3/3Avoiding Conflict
Sometimes used when someone does not want to confront a difficult situation or conversation.
Instead of arguing, he took the easy way out and agreed.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
The phrase often implies a judgment or criticism, suggesting laziness or lack of commitment.
He took the easy way out by copying his friend's project.
Pro Tip 2/3Casual Conversations
Commonly used in informal dialogues and can be considered too casual for formal writing.
I can't believe she just took the easy way out and quit.
Pro Tip 3/3Avoiding Conflict
Sometimes used when someone does not want to confront a difficult situation or conversation.
Instead of arguing, he took the easy way out and agreed.
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