go easy on (someone or something)
go easy on (someone or something)
1. To be lenient with someone, especially after they've done something that could justify a punishment or scolding. Go easy on your little brother, will you? He didn't mean to break the window. I only lost by six points, but I think he was going easy on me since he's so much better.
2. To use only a small amount of something. Hey, go easy on the ketchup—there's not much left.
go easy on someone or something
to be gentle on someone or something; not to be too critical of someone or something; to take it easy on someone or something. (See also go easy on something.) Go easy on Sherri. She's my friend. Try to go easy on criticizing their report. They did the best they could in the time allotted.
go easy on something
to use something sparingly. (See also take it easy on something; go easy on someone or something.) Go easy on the mustard. That's all there is. Please go easy on the onions. I don't like them very much.
go easy on someone
If you tell someone to go easy on another person, you are telling them not to punish or treat that person severely. Note: In the first idiom below, ABC is pronounced `a b c', as if you are spelling it out. Go easy on her, Michael. She's having a hard time as it is.
go easy on something
If you tell someone to go easy on something, you are warning them not to have or use too much of it, because you think that it is bad for them. Note: In the first idiom below, ABC is pronounced `a b c', as if you are spelling it out. Small meals at regular times are important. Go easy on the salt and don't add extra sugar.