go easy on

idiom

informal

: to treat (someone) in a way that is not harsh or demanding

The students might respond better if the teacher went (a little) easy on them.

: to use less of (something)

My doctor said to go easy on fatty foods.

Examples of go easy on in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Israel’s status has been underwritten by U.S. preeminence in the region, which offered other countries there a binary choice: Either side with the United States and, by extension, go easy on Israel or stand against it and be isolated or worse (see: Iraq). —

Daniel Levy, Foreign Affairs, 12 Aug. 2015 David does not go easy on him, pushing back by saying the real motive is to manipulate him into returning the favor, will for will. —

Jason Zinoman, New York Times, 29 Feb. 2024 Issa Rae dazzled in a high-neck, long sleeve gown by Pamella Roland that did not go easy on the embellishments. —

Erin Jensen, USA TODAY, 16 Jan. 2024 Adele will not go easy on anyone who decides to throw something onstage during her Las Vegas residency. —

Emlyn Travis, EW.com, 4 July 2023 See all Example Sentences for go easy on

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'go easy on.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.