half-measure

• half measure

half-measure (plural half-measures)

1. An inadequate or incomplete solution to a problem.
   • 2006, Gary Kibbins, Andrew J. Paterson, Grammar & Not-grammar: Selected Scripts and Essays:

     There is much stronger evidence that the title is a ruse, luring the viewer in by half measures.

   • 2007 September 25, Bungie, Halo 3, Microsoft Game Studios, Xbox 360, level/area: Terminal Six (Legendary):

     As Mendicant stated in its report [58,078:H 48:M 12:S ago]: half measures will not suffice.

   • 2011, Andrew Solomon, The Noonday Demon: An Atlas Of Depression, page 38:

     Science and philosophy must proceed by half-measures.

   • 2011, Richard K. Betts, American Force, page 61:

     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).