Why “I’m Easy” Does Not Mean “I’m Simple”

Why “I’m Easy” Does Not Mean “I’m Simple”

In Australia, if someone asks where to have lunch or what to do on the weekend, replying “I’m easy” means that you have no strong preference and are happy for the other person to choose. It does not mean “I’m a simple person”. The expression is informal and cooperative.

A: Thai or Italian tonight?
B: I’m easy. You choose.

This usage is not uniquely Australian; it also appears in British and American dictionaries. The choice, however, needs to be clear from the context. Easy can describe someone who is readily persuaded and may even carry a derogatory sexual suggestion, so “I’m easy” is not a good general introduction to your personality. In a formal setting, or whenever you want to remove all ambiguity, “Either is fine with me” or “I don’t mind” is safer.

Chinese speakers sometimes use “I’m casual” to mean “I have no preference”, but that is unnatural. Casual usually describes clothing, an attitude or an arrangement as informal; it does not normally mean that either choice suits you.


Discover more from Geoffrey Chen

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.