eye-service

eye-service

A worker gives eye-service when the supervisor is not looking.

Definition
  1. Noun (uncountable):
    • Work performed only when under supervision: "eye-service" refers to the practice of working diligently or attentively only when one is being watched by a superior, while slacking off when not observed. It implies a lack of genuine effort or honesty in one's duties.
Usage Examples
  • (She pretended to be diligent only under direct observation.)
  • (The practice of working only when watched damages workplace morale.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to render eye-service": to perform work in a deceptive manner, showing effort only when being watched.

    • The staff rendered eye-service during the inspection, but returned to laziness as soon as the inspector left. (They worked hard only during the inspection.)

  • "eye-service vs. heart-service": a contrast between superficial, monitored work and genuine, wholehearted effort.

    • The manager values heart-service over eye-service, preferring employees who work sincerely even when alone. (Genuine effort is preferred over merely appearing to work.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Eye-servant (noun): a person who performs eye-service; a worker who is diligent only when watched.
    • The foreman dismissed the eye-servant after catching him idle during unmonitored hours. (The worker who only worked when watched was fired.)
Synonyms
  • Lip service: insincere verbal support or agreement, not backed by action.
  • Pretence of work: a false show of being busy or productive.
  • Simulated diligence: fake hard work meant to deceive.
Antonyms
  • Conscientiousness: careful and thorough work done regardless of supervision.
  • Sincerity: genuine effort and honesty in one's duties.
Related Idioms

  • To work to the clock: to work only the minimum required time, without extra effort.

    • He works to the clock, doing just enough to avoid trouble — a classic case of eye-service. (He works only for the minimum required hours.)

  • To put on a show of work: to pretend to be busy or productive.

    • The interns put on a show of work when the CEO visited, but returned to their phones afterward. (They pretended to be busy during the visit.)