put a band-aid on a bullet wound

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put a band-aid on a bullet wound (third-person singular simple present puts a band-aid on a bullet wound, present participle putting a band-aid on a bullet wound, simple past and past participle put a band-aid on a bullet wound)

1. (idiomatic, informal) To inadequately treat a serious situation.
   • 2023, Richmond Kobe, Rising From The Ashes:

     Using substances as a coping mechanism is like putting a band-aid on a bullet wound; it might momentarily mask the pain, but it doesn't address the root problem and often exacerbates it.