# do by halves

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/do-by-halves
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To perform (a task, etc) partially or incompletely; to do (something) inadequately, halfheartedly, or shoddily.

## Examples

- If you do a job, do not do it by halves.
- She is a perfectionist who never does anything by halves, so the project was finished perfectly.
- He approached his new responsibilities with such intensity that it was clear he was not a man to do things by halves.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.