half-measure
noun1
An inadequate or incomplete solution to a problem.
- There is much stronger evidence that the title is a ruse, luring the viewer in by half measures.2006, Gary Kibbins, Andrew J. Paterson, Grammar & Not-grammar: Selected Scripts and Essays:
- As Mendicant stated in its report [58,078:H 48:M 12:S ago]: half measures will not suffice.2007 September 25, Bungie, Halo 3, Microsoft Game Studios, Xbox 360, level/area: Terminal Six (Legendary):
2 more examples
- Science and philosophy must proceed by half-measures.2011, Andrew Solomon, The Noonday Demon: An Atlas Of Depression, page 38:
- The United States and United Nations responded to rough experiences by remaining mired in indecision and hamstrung by half-measures (Bosnia to 1995), facing failure and bailing out (Somalia), acting only after a long period of limited and misdirected pressure (Haiti), or holding back from action where more awesome disaster than anywhere else called for it (Rwanda).2011, Richard K. Betts, American Force, page 61: