minimal effort
[ˈmɪnɪməl ˈɛfərt]
noun phrase
esforço mínimo
1. The least amount of work, energy, or attempt required or expended to accomplish something
He put in minimal effort on the project and still passed the class.
Ele fez um esforço mínimo no projeto e ainda assim passou na aula.
2. A deliberate approach of doing the bare minimum without much commitment or care
The restaurant's service was minimal effort—they barely acknowledged our presence.
O serviço do restaurante foi de esforço mínimo—eles mal reconheceram nossa presença.
3. An economical or efficient approach that requires little resources
This minimal effort solution saves both time and money.
Esta solução de esforço mínimo economiza tempo e dinheiro.
In both Brazilian and American culture, 'minimal effort' often carries a negative connotation, suggesting laziness or lack of commitment, though it can also be used neutrally to describe efficient, lean approaches. In Brazilian Portuguese, this phrase is frequently used in everyday speech to critique poor work quality or lack of dedication. In American English, slang alternatives like 'phoning it in' are very common in workplace settings.
NYC Slang
half-assing it / phoning it in / sleepwalking through it
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