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pat answer

[/pæt ˈænsər/]
nounpl: pat answers
resposta fácil/superficial
1. A quick, ready-made, or oversimplified answer that lacks depth or originality; often given without much thought or consideration
The politician gave a pat answer to the reporter's difficult question about the economy.
O político deu uma resposta fácil à pergunta difícil do repórter sobre a economia.
2. A response that is too convenient or formulaic, avoiding genuine engagement with a complex issue
His pat answer about working harder doesn't address the real problems facing the company.
Sua resposta superficial sobre trabalhar mais não aborda os problemas reais que a empresa enfrenta.
NYC Slang
cop-out answer
Synonyms
stock answercanned responseeasy answersimplistic answerglib response
Antonyms
thoughtful answernuanced responsegenuine answersubstantive reply

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
resposta fácil/superficial
Commonly used in formal and informal contexts
São Paulo
resposta morna/de prateleira
Alternative expressions used in urban contexts
Portugal
resposta feita/convencional
European Portuguese prefers more formal alternatives

Related Idioms & Phrases

give someone the brush-off with a pat answer
pat answer on the tip of one's tongue
avoid with a pat answer
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