line of least resistance

Related to line of least resistance: path of least resistance

the line of least resistance

The thing, option, or course of action that is easiest to do; that which avoids confrontation, difficulty, awkwardness, or tension. Let's not try to innovate this time—just take the line 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 line of least resistance every time he asks you to do something you don't want to do.
See also: least, line, of, resistance
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

line of least resistance

the course of action that will cause least trouble or effort. Jane won't stand up for her rights. She always takes the line of least resistance. Joan never states her point of view. She takes the line of least resistance and agrees with everyone else.
See also: least, line, of, resistance
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • least resistance, line of
  • the line of least resistance
  • the path of least resistance
  • path of least resistance
  • resistance
  • choose the line of least resistance
  • choose the path of least resistance
  • take the line of least resistance
  • tension
  • sexual tension
References in periodicals archive
Mr Hosking said: "I still think this could go ahead but I think people take the line of least resistance so big protests like this could sway the decision makers."
School boards and unions also take the line of least resistance by handing out more rights and less work rather than increasing teachers pay.
As the lava crept down the slope, its front hardened where it hit thick, glacier-filled valleys, forcing the lava to flow along the line of least resistance, usually the ridges between the valleys.
Writer-helmer also plays the lead role of Jonas, who, as is made clear in an opening photo montage, hasn't had much luck with women and always takes the line of least resistance when confronted with a problem.
If the curtain is disturbed and is made heavier at one end and thinner at the other, the air follows the line of least resistance and passes through the thin curtain area [ILLUSTRATION FOR FIGURE 5 OMITTED].
It is always possible, and often the case, that we will choose to follow the line of least resistance and not respond to the "moment of grace." The reign of God will not be born in that moment.
Unsurprisingly, he took the line of least resistance and did whatever was asked of him.
The board said: "There is no explanation why the officers dealt with the incident in this way, but it is likely they followed the line of least resistance and moved on to the next job."
"Burglars with take the line of least resistance. If a house is in darkness and looks easy to get into, a burglar will choose that over one lit up like a Christmas tree.
When the time came for me to think of some kind of career, I followed the line of least resistance and pleased my grandmother by deciding to apply for a place at a teacher training college.
The trouble is where motivation is weak, either among pupils, parents or teachers, the system takes a line of least resistance.
Defence barristers for the five, none of whom had previous drugs convictions, said some "took the line of least resistance and allowed this amateur effort to proceed".
"But when times get harder, they may well think, 'The line of least resistance for me is to steal.'
A picket line is the line of most resistance - Hollywood starlets are famous for their line of least resistance.
Surrounded by such weak hearts, ministers can find many a reason to take the line of least resistance and channel their efforts to the South-East, where Parliamentary marginals crowd together and the civil servants who advise them just happen to reside.