The phrase "no brainer" is commonly spelled with two words. The IPA phonetic transcription for this phrase is /nəʊ ˈbreɪnər/. The first syllable, "no", is pronounced with a short "o" sound and the second syllable, "brainer", is pronounced with a long "a" sound. The phrase is used to describe something that is very easy or obvious, requiring no thought or consideration. For example, choosing between a free trip to Hawaii and working overtime would be a "no brainer" decision for most people.
No brainer is an idiomatic expression used to describe a decision or choice that requires little or no mental effort or deliberation due to its obviousness or simplicity. When a situation is labeled as a "no brainer," it implies that the answer or solution is so clear and straightforward that it can be made without any intellectual effort, deep analysis, or hesitation.
The term originates from the idea that making such a decision does not require engaging the brain in any substantial manner, hence the phrase "no brainer." Often, "no brainer" situations involve options or alternatives that are vastly unequal in terms of advantages or disadvantages, making the choice evident and almost automatic.
In common parlance, no brainers are typically associated with situations where the right course of action is overwhelmingly evident or where choosing the best option is blatantly obvious. The lack of complexity or difficulty involved in making a decision is a defining characteristic of a no brainer. It is important to note that a no brainer is subjective and can vary from person to person, as what might be considered an obvious choice for one could involve more consideration from another individual.
In summary, "no brainer" refers to a decision or choice that is exceptionally clear and effortless to make due to its obviousness, simpleness, or a striking difference between alternatives. It suggests that the answer is so apparent that it requires minimal or no intellectual effort to reach a conclusion.
The term "no brainer" is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century in American English. It is derived from the combination of two words: "no" and "brainer".
The word "no" indicates negation or absence, while "brainer" refers to the intellectual process of thinking or decision-making. In this context, "no brainer" implies that something requires little to no intellectual effort or consideration to make a decision or judgment about.
The phrase gained popularity and became a colloquial expression used primarily in informal conversations. It conveys the idea that a particular choice or decision is so obvious or easy that it does not require much thought or analysis.