smuːð ˈseɪlɪŋ
Travel
informal
beginner
- Literally:
- A boat sailing on calm waters
What does "smooth sailing" mean?
- Easy progress without problems
- A situation with no difficulties
Examples
- After the initial problems, it was smooth sailing.
- The project has been smooth sailing so far.
- I expect smooth sailing from here on.
Origin
From nautical terminology—calm seas make for easy sailing. Extended to any situation proceeding easily.
How to use it
Positive expression. Often used after overcoming initial difficulties.
Similar expressions
easy going
plain sailing
no problems
straightforward
Opposites
rough waters
uphill battle
troubled waters
Related idioms
- hit the road
To leave or depart on a journey
- in the same boat
In the same difficult situation as someone else
- miss the boat
To miss an opportunity
- go the extra mile
to make more effort than is expected or required
- a long way to go
much more work or progress is needed before completion
- that ship has sailed
The opportunity has passed
Use it in a practice answer
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