1129 Easier said than done

Explanation

Used to express that a task or course of action sounds simple but is actually difficult to execute.

Origin

The concept is ancient, appearing in various forms across languages and cultures (e.g., Roman playwright Plautus).
The English phrasing has been common for centuries, reflecting the universal truth that talking about doing something is simpler than actually doing it.

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

Yeah, right. (Sarcastic agreement implying difficulty/impossibility)
Try telling that to [the difficult situation/person].
Harder than it looks.

Milder/Standard:

That presents some challenges.
It's quite difficult to achieve.
That requires significant effort.

Situational Appropriateness

Appropriate in most contexts, informal and formal.
Can sound slightly negative or resistant depending on the tone, so use thoughtfully in professional settings.

Misunderstanding Warnings

Generally straightforward, but learners should understand it's not a literal comparison of speaking versus doing, but an idiom about difficulty.

Examples

You just need to relax. That's easier said than done when you have three exams next week.
Just ask for a raise! Easier said than done; my boss can be intimidating.
We should double our sales next year. Easier said than done, but let's figure out a plan.

Dialogue

Liam: You should quit your job if you're unhappy.

Maya: That's easier said than done. I need the income, and the job market is tough right now.

Liam: I understand. Maybe start looking around slowly?

Response Patterns

I know, but we have to try.
True, but what's the alternative?
Do you have any suggestions on how to do it?
Fair enough. (Acknowledging the difficulty)

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After acknowledgement (True):

Might lead to brainstorming solutions or discussing the specific difficulties. Okay, so what are the main obstacles?

After a challenge (What's the alternative?):

Could lead to justifying the difficulty or reinforcing the need to try. The alternative is failing, so let's focus on how.

Conversation Starter

No. It's a response to a suggestion or statement that seems overly simple or optimistic.

Intonation

Often said with a sigh or a slightly weary, skeptical, or challenging tone.
Stress falls on EASIER and DONE. Sometimes SAID is also stressed slightly less.
EASIER said than DONE.

Generation Differences

Universally understood and used.

Regional Variations

Common in all major English-speaking regions.

Draw a blank

🎲 Eleventh hour

[1129] Easier said than done