child’s play: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "child's play" is a common expression used in the English language. It is typically used to describe a task or activity that is considered to be easy, simple, or uncomplicated. The phrase suggests that the task in question requires minimal effort or skill, as if it were comparable to the play of a child.

One possible explanation for the origin of the idiom "child's play" is rooted in the idea that young children engage in activities that are often seen as uncomplicated or effortless. In this sense, the idiom may have evolved from the observation that the play of children is typically associated with simplicity and ease. This notion is supported by the fact that the idiom has been used in literature and spoken language for many decades.

The idiom "child's play" is often used to describe tasks or activities that do not require significant intellectual or physical effort. It suggests that the task is so easy that it can be likened to the play of a child. By invoking the image of childlike simplicity, the idiom emphasizes the straightforward nature of the task being described.

The idiom "child's play" is a versatile expression that can be employed in various contexts, such as work, sports, and everyday life. It is a way to convey that a task or activity is not challenging or complex. Whether it's a simple task at work or a recreational activity, the idiom captures the idea that it requires minimal effort and is comparable to the play of a child.

In the context of "child's play," the idiom "kid around" is related. When someone says that they are just "kid around," it means that they are joking or messing around in a light-hearted manner. This idiom reflects the playful and carefree nature of children's play, where they often engage in activities for pure enjoyment and amusement.

in laywoman's terms, "child's play" can be summarized as an activity that is as easy as playtime for a child. The idiom emphasizes simplicity and minimal effort, and it can be used to describe tasks or activities that do not require significant intellectual or physical exertion. It's like a game of "duck soup," where the task is so easy that it can be accomplished effortlessly and without any complications.

When someone describes a task or activity as "duck soup," they mean that it is extremely easy or simple. This idiom further emphasizes the effortless nature of "child's play." Just as a child's play is seen as uncomplicated and straightforward, so is a task described as "duck soup." Both idioms convey the idea that minimal effort or skill is required to complete the task at hand.

The idiom "child's play" is an expression that denotes a task or activity that is easy or uncomplicated. Its usage can be traced back to at least the 19th century, and it has become a well-known phrase in the English language. While the exact origin of the idiom remains uncertain, it likely emerged from the observation that the play of children is often seen as straightforward and effortless.

Overall, the idiom "child's play" conveys a sense of simplicity and minimal effort, making it a commonly used expression in both formal and informal settings. Whether it's used to describe a simple task at work or a recreational activity, the idiom invokes the image of childlike simplicity to emphasize the ease or lack of difficulty associated with the task being described.