palliative
This term describes a focus on comfort and symptom management rather than a cure. In medical settings, it carries a compassionate, supportive connotation, often associated with end-of-life care where the goal shifts from eradication of disease to the preservation of quality of life. In political or social contexts, the word takes on a more critical or skeptical tone. It suggests a superficial fix or a "band-aid" solution that masks a problem to prevent immediate outcry while leaving the systemic cause untouched.
Meanings
Intended to relieve pain or alleviate a problem without curing the underlying cause.
"The patient was moved to palliative care to ensure they remained comfortable during their final weeks."
A medicine or medical treatment that relieves symptoms without curing the disease.
"The doctor prescribed a strong palliative to manage the chronic pain."
Providing temporary relief or a superficial solution to a problem rather than addressing the root cause.
"The government's tax cut was seen as a palliative measure that failed to address the systemic economic crisis."
A temporary or superficial solution intended to soothe a situation without solving the fundamental issue.
"The new policy is merely a palliative for the deeper structural problems within the organization."