What does “Piece of cake” mean?
The phrase "Piece of cake" means that something is extremely easy or simple to do. It is often used to describe tasks or situations that require little effort or difficulty.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
Don't worry about the exam; it's a piece of cake if you study.
Example
Baking this cake is a piece of cake; just follow the recipe.
Example
The crossword puzzle was a piece of cake for her; she finished it in minutes.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Describing an easy task or activity
Fixing the leaky faucet was a piece of cake; it only took a few minutes.
Running a mile used to be difficult for me, but now it's a piece of cake.
- 2Expressing confidence in completing a task
I've been playing the piano for years, so performing that song is a piece of cake for me.
I've done this project multiple times before, so it will be a piece of cake to complete.
- 3Comparing the simplicity of two things
Compared to the math problems, the science questions were a piece of cake.
I thought the hike would be difficult, but it turned out to be a piece of cake.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The origin of the phrase "piece of cake" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. It may have come from the idea that eating a piece of cake is an enjoyable and effortless task.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "piece of cake" can be used on its own to convey that something is easy or simple. For example, if someone asks you if a task is difficult, you can simply respond with "Piece of cake!" to indicate that it is not challenging.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "piece of cake" is not offensive. It is a slang expression used to describe something that is very easy or simple to do.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "piece of cake" is commonly used by English speakers of all ages and backgrounds. It is a well-known idiom that is easily understood by most people.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
While the phrase "piece of cake" is used in various English-speaking regions, it is particularly associated with the United Kingdom. It is commonly used in British English and is often heard in British literature, films, and conversations.
