cursory try

[ˈkɜːrsəri traɪ]
noun phrasepl: cursory tries
tentativa superficial
1. A quick, hasty, or superficial attempt at something without thorough effort or attention to detail
He made only a cursory try at fixing the engine before giving up.
Ele fez apenas uma tentativa superficial de consertar o motor antes de desistir.
2. A brief or casual effort that lacks depth or commitment
She took a cursory try at learning Spanish, attending only one class.
Ela fez uma tentativa superficial de aprender espanhol, frequentando apenas uma aula.
In both American and Brazilian cultures, a 'cursory try' is often criticized as insufficient effort. In business and academic contexts in Brazil, it's considered unprofessional. In the USA, it may be used more colloquially to describe casual attempts at hobbies or learning.
NYC Slang
half-ass try
Synonyms / Sinônimos
half-hearted attemptquick attemptsuperficial effortcasual trybrief effort
Antonyms / Antônimos
thorough attemptserious effortdedicated tryearnest attempt

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
tentativa superficial
Most common and neutral translation
Brazil - Informal
tentativa meia-boca
Colloquial expression meaning a half-hearted attempt
Portugal
tentativa superficial
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; formal usage
Portugal - Informal
uma tentada à pressa
Colloquial alternative meaning a hasty try

Related Words

cursorysuperficialattemptendeavorefforthalf-hearted

Related Idioms & Phrases

give something a shot
take a stab at something
not give something a real chance
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