choose the path of least resistance

To do something or decide on a course of action that avoids confrontation or difficulty. Let's not try to innovate this time—just choose the path of least resistance so we can get the job done on time. You're never going to be respected by your boss if you choose the path of least resistance every time he asks you to do something you don't want to do. I know it's frustrating to constantly have to nag your kids, but you can't always choose the path of least resistance either. It's a delicate balance.

See also: choose, least, of, path, resistance

See also:

References in periodicals archive

The watchdog has highlighted the fact that "most consumers choose the path of least resistance" and "accept the drawdown option offered by their pension provider without shopping around".

Don't risk luck of the draw

Whether in the field of sports, love, or whatever; we naturally choose the path of least resistance. We all know "the way to a man's heart is through his stomach", "diamonds are a girl's best friend"; and those targeting you with malware know that if there is a soft underbelly in any organization, its keys and certificates.

Security is no joke!

Don't choose the path of least resistance, choose the one that's most beneficial.

stars; Scotland's top astrologer David Wells on the week ahead

Instead, we must choose the path of least resistance and use our surface-search radar as the primary means of weather avoidance.

The uneventful trip

As one who shies away from confrontation, I generally choose the path of least resistance. I admire those who are capable of working within the Republican Party to engineer one of the architectures by which we build our political agenda.

Party lines. (reader forum)

All content on this website, including dictionary, thesaurus, literature, geography, and other reference data is for informational purposes only. This information should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional.