picked up the slack
Handled extra work
Picked up the slack means compensated for someone else's inadequate effort or took on work that others left undone.
The image comes from rope or line that hangs loose when not pulled taut—someone must gather it up.
When two employees quit, the rest of us picked up the slack.
She picked up the slack while her coworker was on leave.
- filled inSupplied missing information
- took overGained control of
- stepped upIncreased in degree
- pitched inContributed effort or resources
- accountabilityObligation for one's actions
cooperation · resourcefulness · initiative · dependability · resilience · rose to the occasion · improvisation · solidarity · troubleshooting · responsiveness · commitment · contribution · reliability · flexibility · diligence · support · proactivity · extra mile
picked up the slackdropped the ball
Failed at crucial moment
slacked off · coasted · checked out · passed the buck · freeloaded
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