half-hearted attempt
noun phraseUK /ˌhɑːfˈhɑːtɪd əˈtempt/
US /ˌhæfˈhɑrtɪd əˈtempt/
Trying to do something without really caring if you finish it.
He made a half-hearted attempt to clean his room before giving up.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. An effort made without real interest or energy.
Her half-hearted attempt at an apology fooled no one.
3. A try that is done only because you feel you must.
The team's half-hearted attempt to win showed they had given up.
4. A weak start that is not followed through.
His half-hearted attempt to learn guitar lasted only a week.