indifferent work

[ɪnˈdɪfərənt wɜːrk]
noun phrasepl: indifferent works
trabalho indiferente
1. Work or labor that is performed without enthusiasm, care, or quality; work done in a mediocre or halfhearted manner
The contractor's indifferent work on the renovation left many details unfinished.
O trabalho indiferente do empreiteiro na reforma deixou muitos detalhes inacabados.
2. A task or job executed with apathy or minimal effort, lacking attention to detail or excellence
His indifferent work on the project disappointed the entire team.
Seu trabalho indiferente no projeto decepcionou toda a equipe.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, 'indifferent work' is viewed negatively and reflects poorly on a person's professional reputation and work ethic. In Brazil, there's often an expectation for personal connection and care in work ('jogo de cintura'), making indifferent work particularly noteworthy as a failure to engage authentically. In the U.S., it violates the cultural value placed on hard work and dedication.
NYC Slang
phoned-in work; half-assed work; lazy work
Synonyms / Sinônimos
mediocre workhalfhearted worksubstandard workcareless worknegligent worksloppy work
Antonyms / Antônimos
excellent workmeticulous workdedicated workquality workoutstanding workconscientious work

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
trabalho indiferente
Standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
trampo indiferente
Colloquial; 'trampo' is informal for 'trabalho'
São Paulo
trabalho meia-boca
Regional slang meaning substandard or halfhearted work
Portugal
trabalho indiferente
Similar to Brazilian usage; may also say 'trabalho medíocre'

Related Words

apathynegligencemediocritylackadaisicalwork ethicdiligencecommitment

Related Idioms & Phrases

to phone it in
to do a half job
to cut corners
to go through the motions
não dar 100%
fazer de qualquer jeito
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →