cheap method

[/tʃip ˈmɛθəd/]
noun phrasepl: cheap methods
método barato
1. an inexpensive or low-cost way of doing something that may sacrifice quality or efficiency
They used a cheap method to fix the roof, but it didn't last long.
Eles usaram um método barato para consertar o telhado, mas não durou muito tempo.
2. a shortcut or quick solution that is economical but potentially inferior
The company opted for a cheap method to reduce production costs.
A empresa optou por um método barato para reduzir os custos de produção.
In Brazilian culture, 'gambiarragem' (improvised cheap methods) is often viewed with a mix of pragmatism and creativity, reflecting a resourceful approach to problem-solving. In American business contexts, cheap methods are often criticized as lacking quality, whereas in developing economies they may be celebrated as practical solutions.
NYC Slang
on the cheap / on a shoestring
Synonyms / Sinônimos
inexpensive methodcost-effective approachbudget solutionlow-cost technique
Antonyms / Antônimos
expensive methodpremium approachhigh-quality techniquecostly solution

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
método barato
most common and neutral usage
Rio de Janeiro
gambiarragem
colloquial term for improvised cheap solutions
São Paulo
método econômico
more formal business context
Portugal
método económico
Portuguese spelling with 'c' instead of 'n'

Related Words

cost-cuttingeconomybudgetshortcutworkaroundefficiency

Related Idioms & Phrases

cut corners
penny pinching
doing it on the cheap
quick and dirty solution
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