Slack

Slack, in its most common usage, describes a lack of tautness, tension, or activity. It can pertain to physical things like a loose rope, a relaxed muscle, or a decline in work performance. It also signifies a state of being careless, negligent, or slow in action. Furthermore, 'slack' can refer to a period of inactivity or reduced demand in a business or economic context. The word's versatility allows it to be applied to various situations, highlighting the absence of intensity or diligence, ranging from physical looseness to a relaxed approach to responsibilities or economic downturns, revealing the multifaceted character of this word.

Slack meaning with examples

• The rope had too much slack, making it dangerous to use for climbing. The climber noticed that the rope had too much give and it put her at risk, the climbing instructor immediately told her to take in some rope. She adjusted the rope, ensuring there was no excess length. This prevented falls and allowed for secure rappelling. Without a tight hold there would be an accident which they couldn't afford. The rope was a critical safety element that needed to be properly adjusted.
• The team's performance showed a noticeable slack after the project deadline passed. They no longer seemed worried about the project. There was a loss of energy as the work ethic of the team began to slip, resulting in delays, with assignments being unfulfilled, and meetings went unrecorded. This highlighted the need for ongoing monitoring to prevent a dip in productivity after the rush of deadlines had passed. The team's efficiency plummeted drastically after the fact.
• During the summer months, there is often a slack period in tourism. It occurs every year and the city is left a little empty with far fewer people visiting tourist attractions and hotels empty out. The economy slows as restaurants close for part of the day due to low customer foot traffic, affecting business performance. Consequently, business owners adjust staffing and reduce their hours, to accommodate the fall in business and maintain profits. This affects the local economy.
• The coach warned the players not to become slack during the final minutes of the game. If they weren't vigilant they would lose the game. Complacency could cost them the victory as they got close to the end of the game. The players pushed themselves, staying focused, and maintaining their intensity despite being close to winning. They were rewarded for their hard work and focus when they ultimately won.