As easy as pie
/əz ˈiːzi əz paɪ/informalUS · UK
What does “As easy as pie” mean?
As easy as pie means very easy to do, with little effort
If a task is as easy as pie, it takes little effort or skill. You might say it after following clear instructions or learning a useful shortcut.
It can reassure a beginner, but be careful about dismissing someone else's difficulty. What is easy for you may still take them practice.
When do people say it?
Use it to reassure someone about a simple task, or to describe something you found effortless.
“Once you've saved your details, booking another ticket is as easy as pie.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in US and UK.
Where does it come from?
The phrase uses pie as a cheerful comparison for something easy. It does not mean that baking a pie is always simple.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “As easy as pie” in other languages?
Related idioms
- A piece of cake, Extremely easy.
Last updated 2026-09-19