Low hanging fruit

Meaning

The idiom "low hanging fruit" refers to something that is easy to access or achieve, often because it is close to the ground or already within reach. It can also refer to something that requires little effort or skill to accomplish.

Usage

• "The company's low-hanging fruit is its established customer base, which provides a steady stream of revenue."
• "We need to focus on the low-hanging fruit first by implementing these simple changes in our operations."
• "Despite being an accomplished musician, he still found it easy to pick up new skills and tackle more complex projects."
• "The best way to start tackling climate change is by targeting low-hanging fruit, like reducing energy consumption in homes and businesses."
• "After years of climbing the corporate ladder, he finally reached the top and was able to enjoy the fruits of his labor."

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom is unclear, but it has been in use since at least the 16th century. It may have originally referred to fruit that could be easily picked from trees or bushes without climbing too high. Over time, the phrase came to be used more broadly to refer to anything that was easy to achieve or obtain.

Synonyms in English

• Easy pickings
• Plenty of low-hanging fruit
• A cakewalk
• Piece of cake
• Low-effort tasks

Synonyms in other languages

• Español: Fruita baja
• Français: Fruit pendu bas
• Italian: Frutto a basso
• German: Niedergelagerter Frucht
• Japanese: 低層果物 (しょうしゅくかい)

Similar Idioms

• leave at the altar

• lighten up

• a cinch