take the easy way out
Choose minimal effort
To take the easy way out is to choose a simpler path that avoids difficulty, effort, or responsibility.
The phrase often carries judgment—that someone dodged a harder but more honorable course: Quitting was taking the easy way out.
Sometimes it refers to suicide as escape from unbearable circumstances, though this usage is considered insensitive.
- path of least resistanceCourse requiring least effort
- irresponsibilityFailure to meet obligations
- passing the buckTransferring responsibility to others
- shortcutQuicker alternative path
- abdicationFormal surrender of power
fear · dishonesty · laziness · regret · evasion · complacency · escapism · running away · cowardice · chickening out · expediency · procrastination · failure · cop-out · self-interest · rationalization · opportunism · guilt
take the easy way outpersevere
Continue despite obstacles
stick with it · see it through · tough it out · buckle down · stay the course
take the easy way outdo the right thing
Behave with moral integrity
take responsibility · stand one's ground · bite the bullet · own up · step up
take the easy way outgo the extra mile
Surpass what's asked
leave no stone unturned · dot the i's and cross the t's · put in the work · take pains · spare no effort