Definition

Noun: * The easiest way or course of action: The option that requires the least effort, avoids conflict, or presents the fewest immediate difficulties. It implies choosing what is most convenient or least challenging, often without considering long-term consequences or principles.

Usage

This noun phrase is typically used with verbs like take, follow, or choose. It describes a decision-making approach characterized by avoiding hardship or confrontation.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Faced with the angry crowd, the politician took the line of least resistance and agreed to their demands.
  • Instead of arguing, I followed the line of least resistance and accepted the plan.
  • Choosing the default settings is often the line of least resistance for new users.

Advanced Usage

• "To take/pursue/follow the line/path of least resistance": This is the most common idiomatic construction. "Path of least resistance" is a synonymous variant.
  • In physics, electricity follows the path of least resistance. In life, people often do the same.

Variants and Related Words

• Path of least resistance (noun phrase): A direct synonym with identical meaning and usage.
  • He always chooses the path of least resistance in his personal relationships.

Synonyms

• The easy way out: Emphasizes avoiding difficulty.
• The course of least effort: A more literal description.
• Expediency: The quality of being convenient and practical, even if improper or immoral.

Antonyms

• The hard road/path: A course of action that is difficult but principled.
• Swimming against the tide: Acting in opposition to the prevailing trend or opinion.
• Taking a stand: Adopting a firm position, especially against opposition.

Related Idioms

• To go with the flow: To be relaxed and accept things as they are without trying to change them. This is similar but implies a more passive acceptance rather than an active choice between options.
  • I don't have a strong opinion, so I'll just go with the flow.

Noun

1. the easiest way
   • In marrying him she simply took the path of least resistance