Produced in an incompetent or desultory manner, or of something lacking in quality or substance; of low rank; incompetent.
1969, The End of the Road by John Barth (page 155)the only abortion she could get even in the city would be a half-ass job by some half-ass doctor who could mess her up for the rest of her life
(slang) To perform a task incompletely or carelessly. Usually considered derogatory or insulting.
2002, Guardians of the Eagle by John D. Messer (page 102)if you're working for me and I send you to do a job and you half-ass it, that reflects on me. In civilian life, we'd just fire you. Here I can't get rid of you.
