minimum effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "minimum effort" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It can be used to describe the least amount of effort or energy required to achieve something. Example sentence: The new cleaning method requires minimum effort, making it ideal for busy households.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Maximum dazzle, minimum effort.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So many people try to get away with the minimum effort.

The Guardian - Money

Sending it out 15 times isn't determined; it's the bare minimum effort.

The Guardian - Books

He's gently coaxed for five with minimum effort and maximum understatement.

The Guardian - Sport

By rights, Mr. Flay's restaurants should be putting out minimum effort while collecting maximum profits.

The New York Times - Food

They wanted me to tell them how to get a good mark with minimum effort.

The Guardian

It was pure provocation, an assertion of maximum power with minimum effort.

The New York Times - Arts

Today's software market is flooded with programs designed to rout out copycats with maximum efficiency and minimum effort.

The New York Times - Books

With minimum effort at the start, you will be rewarded with a nourishing meal that the whole family will enjoy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"The triangle is a set of three energy events getting into critical proximity, so that each one with minimum effort stabilizes the opposite angle," he said.

The New Yorker

It doesn't matter how tiny your garden is – with minimum effort you can have an eclectic bunch of visitors and their daily business is an extraordinary affair.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "minimum effort" with quantifiable metrics. For example: 'achieve X result with minimum effort.'

Common error

Don't use "minimum effort" to justify subpar work. Instead, highlight how efficiency can still lead to high-quality outcomes. The goal isn't to do poorly; it's to do well with less wasted energy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "minimum effort" functions as a noun phrase, often used as an object or complement in a sentence. Ludwig shows it describes the smallest amount of exertion required to achieve a desired outcome. This usage is grammatically correct and commonly observed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

29%

Science

34%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "minimum effort" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to denote the least amount of exertion required for a task. As confirmed by Ludwig, it effectively communicates efficiency and ease. Its usage spans various contexts, including News & Media, Science, and general discourse. While aiming for "minimum effort" can be beneficial, it's crucial to balance it with a commitment to quality. Alternatives like "least exertion" or "minimal input" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

least exertion

Emphasizes the absolute lowest level of physical or mental activity required.

minimal input

Focuses on the smallest possible contribution needed to achieve a result.

easiest route

Highlights the simplest and most convenient method to accomplish a task.

simplest approach

Stresses the straightforwardness and lack of complexity in the method.

basic attempt

Refers to a rudimentary or fundamental try, requiring little skill or energy.

slightest endeavor

Emphasizes the small amount of effort involved in a particular undertaking.

negligible work

Highlights the insignificance or unimportance of the required task.

token gesture

Indicates a minimal action done primarily for appearance or symbolism.

effortless action

Highlights the lack of difficulty or strain associated with a particular deed.

low impact activity

Focuses on the activity's gentleness and reduced physical demand.

FAQs

How can I use "minimum effort" in a sentence?

You can use "minimum effort" to describe tasks or processes that require very little exertion. For example, "This software allows you to achieve maximum results with "minimum effort"".

What are some alternatives to "minimum effort"?

Some alternatives include "least exertion", "minimal input", or "easiest route", depending on the specific context.

Is it always good to aim for "minimum effort"?

Not necessarily. While efficiency is valuable, aiming for "minimum effort" can sometimes lead to subpar results if not balanced with a commitment to quality. It's about optimizing, not cutting corners.

What's the difference between "minimum effort" and "laziness"?

"Minimum effort" implies achieving a desired outcome efficiently, while "laziness" suggests avoiding effort altogether, often resulting in uncompleted tasks or poor quality work. They differ in intent and outcome.