take the line of least resistance

take the line of least resistance

To do the thing that is easiest. A variant of the more common "take the path of least resistance." Let's not try to innovate this time—just take the line of least resistance so we can get the job done on time.

See also: least, line, of, resistance, take

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

take the line of least resistance

or

take the path of least resistance

If someone takes the line of least resistance or takes the path of least resistance, they do the thing that is easiest in a situation. They would rather take the line of least resistance than become involved in arguments or unpleasant situations. It had been the path of least resistance to agree to Sam's suggestions. Note: The line of least resistance and the path of least resistance are used in many other structures to mean the easiest course of action. He seemed to prove that the line of least resistance would always pay off. Instead of finding a radical solution to its economic difficulties, the Parliament chose the path of least resistance.

See also: least, line, of, resistance, take

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012