mechanical execution
[mə-ˈka-ni-kəl ɪk-ˈse-kyə-ʃən]
nounpl: mechanical executions
execução mecânica
1. The performance of a task or action in a routine, automatic, or unthinking manner without creativity or personal involvement
The pianist's mechanical execution of the piece lacked emotional depth and artistry.
A execução mecânica da peça pelo pianista carecia de profundidade emocional e artisticidade.
2. The carrying out of a legal sentence or punishment, particularly death, in a formal and procedural manner
The mechanical execution of the court's sentence was carried out according to protocol.
A execução mecânica da sentença da corte foi realizada de acordo com o protocolo.
3. The implementation of a plan, command, or instruction in a precise but impersonal way
The soldiers followed orders with mechanical execution, showing no hesitation or questioning.
Os soldados seguiram as ordens com execução mecânica, sem hesitação ou questionamento.
In Brazil, this phrase is commonly used in artistic and educational contexts to critique performances that lack passion or creativity. It's also used in legal and bureaucratic settings to describe the procedural fulfillment of duties. In the USA, similar criticism is often expressed more colloquially as 'phoning it in' or 'sleepwalking through something.'
NYC Slang
phoning it in; going through the motions
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