A fast, easy solution to a problem that may not address the underlying cause or provide a permanent resolution.
This phrase emerged in mid-20th century American English, initially used in mechanical and technical contexts where temporary repairs were needed. It gained broader usage during the 1960s as consumer culture embraced convenience and speed, often at the expense of durability.
The phrase embodies modern society's tension between efficiency and thoroughness - while quick fixes can be genuinely useful in emergencies, they often create a false sense of resolution. In psychology, the appeal of quick fixes reflects our cognitive bias toward immediate gratification, even when we logically know that lasting solutions require more effort.
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