This expression is often used to describe situations where someone is given a small reward or token gesture to keep them content, while the larger, more significant prize or benefit is kept hidden or withheld. It can also be used more broadly to refer to situations where someone is placated with a small gesture or concession, but the underlying issues or problems remain unresolved.
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1What's wrong with the ones you mention? In what kind of context would you like to use it? Please take a look at the tag I added.– JoachimCommented Apr 15, 2023 at 6:42
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Do "give alms" or "do charity" match what you are looking for ?– GraffitoCommented Apr 15, 2023 at 10:17
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Those are idioms. Are you looking for more like that? Even if there are more, the ones you have already identified are probably the best of them.– Tinfoil HatCommented Apr 15, 2023 at 15:26
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There isn't technically a question here. I assume you want an alternative, but it would be good to know more details - if you click on "idiom-requests" and "learn more..." it'll help (sorry that's kind of hidden away).– Stuart FCommented May 17, 2023 at 8:31
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As a kid I only heard "give a dog a bone" following "Knick-knack paddy whack". I've never heard it/read it in adult interchange.– Hot LicksCommented May 17, 2023 at 13:03
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2 Answers
I think the term sop can be helpful in the context you are referring to:
sop noun [ C usually singular ] disapproving
something of little importance or value that is offered to stop complaints or unhappiness:
- Critics see the increase in defence spending as a sop to the armed forces rather than an improvement of national security.
(Cambridge Dictionary)
answered Apr 15, 2023 at 8:34
The phrase is "throw (someone) a bone". From Merriam-Webster
to offer (someone) something that is not very important or valuable especially to stop complaints or protests
The boss would not let his workers out early for the holiday but threw them a bone by buying lunch.
