copout
noun
Copout — the deliberate avoidance of a difficulty one ought to face
Definition
A failure to face some difficulty squarely
In depth
A copout is a failure to face some difficulty squarely, naming a deliberate, often cowardly avoidance of a challenge, responsibility, or hard decision one should have confronted directly. The word carries an implicit moral judgment, suggesting weakness or dishonesty in choosing the easier path over the harder, more honest one.
Origin
The word emerged as American slang in the mid-twentieth century, combining 'cop,' in its older slang sense meaning to take or seize, with 'out,' suggesting an escape or withdrawal. Its informal origin in everyday speech rather than formal vocabulary reflects the word's enduring conversational, critical tone, well suited to calling out perceived weakness or evasion.
Usage examples
"Critics called the film's ending a complete copout, sidestepping every difficult question the story had raised."
"His apology felt like a copout, full of vague regret but no genuine acknowledgment of specific wrongdoing."
"She refused to accept a copout answer, pressing until he finally addressed the question directly."
How to use it
Copout is informal, somewhat critical vocabulary, well suited to casual and critical writing describing the deliberate avoidance of difficult truths, responsibilities, or honest engagement, carrying an implicit accusation of weakness or dishonesty.
Related concepts
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