easy way out
Path of least resistance
The easy way out is a solution that avoids difficulty, effort, or unpleasantness—often at the cost of thoroughness or integrity.
The phrase typically carries judgment: He took the easy way out and quit instead of fixing the problem.
It can refer to anything from avoiding a hard conversation to, euphemistically, suicide.
- shortcutQuicker alternative path
- path of least resistanceCourse requiring least effort
- procrastinationHabitual task avoidance
- compromiseAgreement through mutual sacrifice
- escapismHabitual mental retreat
workaround · loophole · avoidance behavior · passing the buck · dishonesty · expediency · irresponsibility · quick fix · evasion · denial · instant gratification · cutting corners · selfishness · rationalization · short-sightedness · bypass · opportunism · moral hazard
- temptationsforbidden fruit, indulgence, craving, urge, vice
- shoddinessslipshod, slapdash, hack job, botch job, botch
easy way outthe hard way
Through difficulty, not ease
elbow grease · blood sweat and tears · rolling up one's sleeves
easy way outtaking responsibility
facing the music · owning up · doing the right thing · moral courage · stepping up
easy way outsticking it out
the long haul · perseverance · persistence · commitment · endurance
easy, easier, easiest, easily, easiness, uneasy, uneasily, uneasiness, way