phone in

To do a job with very little effort or interest.

• Don't phone it in; this work matters.
• The band phoned in their final performance.
• Are you trying, or are you just phoning it in?

How to use it: phone it in (The actor knew every line but seemed to phone it in.); phone something in (She usually works hard, but she phoned this assignment in.)

Similar words: go through the motions, coast

Common phrases: phone something in, just phone in

To call a radio or television show to ask a question or share your opinion.

• You can phone in with a question.
• A listener phoned in to complain about the traffic.
• Will you phone in during the live debate?

How to use it: phone in to something (Listeners can phone in to the show with questions.); phone in with something (Several viewers phoned in with comments.)

Similar words: call in

Common phrases: phone in live, phone in today

To give a message by telephone when people expect you to come and speak to them in person.

• She phoned in her apology instead of visiting.
• He phoned in his resignation, which upset his manager.
• Please come yourself; don't just phone in.

How to use it: phone in something (He phoned in his resignation instead of speaking to the manager in person.)

Common phrases: phone in apologies, phone in resignations

To act too carefully or timidly when you need to be bold.

• We need a bold response; don't phone it in.
• He phoned in his speech, afraid to challenge anyone.
• The debate needed courage, but both candidates phoned it in.

How to use it: phone it in (With a chance to challenge the mayor, she phoned it in and avoided every difficult question.)

Similar words: hold back

Common phrases: phone something in, just phone in