Meaning & use
least path of resistance
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Meanings
phrasefixed phrase
The easiest way of doing something, chosen because it avoids effort, trouble, or conflict.
Grammar: Used as a noun phrase, almost always with 'the': take the path of least resistance.
Patterns
- take the least path of resistance
- the least path of resistance is to do something
- choose the least path of resistance
When the discussion got difficult, the committee took the least path of resistance and postponed the decision.
For many students, copying a friend's notes is the least path of resistance, but it rarely helps them learn.
She wanted to complain, but the least path of resistance was simply to say nothing.
phrasefixed phrasetechnical
A route or method that meets the least opposition, used literally about movement or flow.
Grammar: Also a noun phrase with 'the'; can describe physical movement as well as behavior.
Patterns
- follow the least path of resistance
- flow along the least path of resistance
Water running down a hillside follows the least path of resistance.
The hikers looked for the least path of resistance through the dense forest.
Common combinations
- take the least path of resistance
- He always takes the least path of resistance when chores are involved.
- the least path of resistance
- The least path of resistance here is to agree with the manager.
- choose the least path of resistance
- Voters often choose the least path of resistance at the polls.
- follow the least path of resistance
- The river follows the least path of resistance across the plain.
Synonyms and how they differ
- the easy way out
- Informal and slightly disapproving; it stresses escaping a duty rather than simply avoiding effort.
- the line of least resistance
- The more common fixed phrase with the same meaning; use it when you want the standard idiom.
- the simplest option
- Neutral and literal; it does not suggest avoiding conflict the way the idiom does.
Opposites
Word family
- resistance noun
- The act of opposing or fighting against something.
- resist verb
- To try to stop or oppose something.
Commonly confused: least path of resistance or least resistance?
least path of resistance vs least resistance
A shortened form people sometimes use; the full idiom needs 'path of' to sound natural.
Practice
Which sentence uses the idiom correctly?
Choose one answer.
The idiom is a noun phrase meaning the easiest option, so it fits as the object of 'took'. Option 2 repeats the idea of resisting, option 3 uses 'a' where the fixed phrase needs 'the', and option 4 uses the phrase as a description of a person, which is not how it works.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “least path of resistance”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.