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lower the bar

[/ˈloʊ.ər ðə bɑːr/]
verb phrase
abaixar o padrão
1. to reduce standards or expectations; to make something easier or less demanding
We shouldn't lower the bar just because the project is behind schedule.
Não devemos abaixar o padrão só porque o projeto está atrasado.
2. to accept poorer quality or performance than before
By accepting mediocre work, you're lowering the bar for future projects.
Ao aceitar trabalho medíocre, você está abaixando o padrão para projetos futuros.
Synonyms
reduce standardscompromise on qualityrelax requirementsease expectations
Antonyms
raise the barset higher standardsincrease expectationstighten requirements

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
abaixar o padrão
most common usage
Brazil
reduzir as exigências
alternative phrase
Portugal
baixar o padrão
slightly different phrasing but same meaning
Portugal
reduzir as expectativas
alternative phrasing

Related Idioms & Phrases

raise the bar
set the bar high
set the bar low
limbo (how low can you go)
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