Path of least resistance and line of least resistance are two phrases that are interchangeable. We will examine the meaning of the expressions path of least resistance and line of least resistance, where these terms came from and some examples of their use in sentences.
Path of least resistance means the easiest course of action, a method of doing something that will cause the least upheaval, opposition, unpleasantness or drama. The term path of least resistance first appeared in the 1820s as an engineering or scientific term. In time, the path of least resistance came to describe human interaction and strategies. The plural of path of least resistance is paths of least resistance. The term path of least resistance is primarily an American term.
Line of least resistance also means the easiest course of action, a method of doing something that will cause the least upheaval, opposition, unpleasantness or drama. The phrases path of least resistance and line of least resistance are interchangeable. The plural of line of least resistance is lines of least resistance. It is primarily a British term.
Examples
The superintendent said there’s a natural inclination to take the path of least resistance, but more of the district’s students are taking more difficult paths. (The Daily Comet)
By now we know his approach: look for the path of least resistance to produce maximum sound and colour. (The Australian Financial Review)
The market, and the larger lenders in particular, might be making this an easy option to take, but the line of least resistance tends not to be the right one in the vast majority of cases. (The Financial Reporter)
Some editors defended it from the line of least resistance, from the standpoint of not having the resources to range far afield or the need to save time before the next deadline or a matter of simply being hostage to the poor communication system in the country. (The Premium Times)