Characters remaining: 500/500
Translation

least effort

Academic
Friendly
Explanation of "Least Effort"

Definition: The phrase "least effort" refers to the smallest amount of work or energy needed to achieve something. It is often used to describe doing tasks in the simplest or easiest way possible.

Usage Instructions
  • When to Use: You can use "least effort" when talking about how to accomplish a task with minimal work or when comparing different methods of doing something.
  • Example: "To save time, I always look for the least effort way to clean the house."
Example Sentences
  1. "He chose the least effort option for his project, which was to copy someone else’s work."
  2. "Finding the least effort way to study helped her improve her grades without feeling overwhelmed."
Advanced Usage
  • You might encounter "least effort" in discussions about efficiency, productivity, or laziness. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if it suggests avoiding hard work unnecessarily.
Word Variants
  • Effort (noun): The physical or mental energy used to do something.
  • Effortful (adjective): Requiring a lot of effort or energy.
Different Meanings

While "least effort" generally refers to doing something with minimal work, it can also imply a lack of commitment or seriousness in some contexts. For example, if someone is said to be doing the "least effort" in a team project, it might suggest they are not contributing equally.

Synonyms
  • Minimal effort
  • Least work
  • Easy way
  • Simplest method
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs
  • "Cut corners": This idiom means to do something in the easiest, quickest, or cheapest way, often sacrificing quality. For example: "He cut corners on the project, which led to mistakes."
  • "Take the easy way out": This means to choose an easier option instead of facing a challenge. For example: "Instead of studying, she took the easy way out and played video games."
Summary

The phrase "least effort" is a useful way to describe the simplest and easiest methods to accomplish tasks.

Noun
  1. the least effortful way to do something

Comments and discussion on the word "least effort"