Easier said than done

Definitions

• Highlight the difficulty of a task or undertaking
  Acknowledge that a task or activity may seem simple or straightforward in theory, but in reality is much more difficult to accomplish

• Express skepticism or doubt about the feasibility of a proposed solution or course of action
  Suggest that an idea or plan may not be as easy to implement or achieve as it may seem at first glance

Examples of Easier said than done

• "I know you should exercise regularly, but finding the time and motivation can be easier said than done."

  This idiom is used to express that something may be easier to suggest or advise than it is to actually accomplish. In this example, the speaker acknowledges that it may be easier to suggest that someone should exercise regularly than it is for them to actually find the time and motivation to do so.

• "I've been meaning to learn a new language, but it's easier said than done."

  Here, the speaker is acknowledging that it may be easier to say that they want to learn a new language than it is to actually put in the time and effort required to learn it.

• "I'd love to run a marathon, but it's easier said than done."

  In this example, the speaker is acknowledging that it may be easier to say that they want to run a marathon than it is to actually train and complete the race.

• "I know I should quit smoking, but it's easier said than done."

  This idiom is used to express that it may be easier to suggest that someone should quit smoking than it is for them to actually quit.

• "I've been trying to save money, but it's easier said than done."

  Here, the speaker is acknowledging that it may be easier to say that they want to save money than it is to actually put in the effort required to do so.

Conclusion

The idiom "easier said than done" is commonly used to emphasize the challenges and difficulties associated with completing a task or undertaking. It highlights the idea that something may seem simple or straightforward when discussed or planned, but in practice, it may be much more complicated and challenging to actually achieve.

This phrase can also be used as a cautionary warning, advising against pursuing a certain course of action or task because it may not be as easy to accomplish as it appears. It can serve as a reminder to consider all potential obstacles and difficulties before committing to a particular plan or solution.

Origin of "Easier said than done"

The origin of this idiom is not completely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the early 1800s. The phrase "easier said than done" is thought to have been derived from the Latin phrase "facile dictu," which translates to "easy to say." This phrase was often used in Latin literature to express the idea that something may be easy to talk about, but not as easy to actually do.

Over time, the phrase evolved into its current form and became a common expression in the English language. It is often used in everyday conversations and is also seen in various forms of literature and media. The origin of this idiom may be uncertain, but its meaning and usage have remained consistent throughout the years.