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threadbare explanation

[THRED-bair ik-SPLA-nay-shun]
noun phrasepl: threadbare explanations
explicação desgastada / explicação superficial
1. A weak, unconvincing, or overly worn-out explanation that lacks substance, originality, or credibility
His threadbare explanation for missing the deadline didn't convince anyone.
Sua explicação desgastada para perder o prazo não convenceu ninguém.
2. An excuse or justification that has been used so many times it has lost its effectiveness or persuasiveness
The politician offered a threadbare explanation that the voters had heard countless times before.
O político ofereceu uma explicação superficial que os eleitores já tinham ouvido inúmeras vezes.
NYC Slang
weak sauce / bogus excuse
Synonyms
weak explanationflimsy excusehollow justificationunconvincing accountthin explanationlame excuse
Antonyms
compelling explanationconvincing accountthorough justificationdetailed explanation

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
explicação desgastada / desculpa fraca
Commonly used in informal contexts
São Paulo
explicação superficial / justificativa sem graça
More commonly used in business contexts
Portugal
explicação gasta / desculpa baça
Tends to use 'gasta' instead of 'desgastada'

Related Idioms & Phrases

wear thin
hold no water
not cut it
fall on deaf ears
beat a dead horse
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