Lazily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lazily

[หˆleษชzษชli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

in a relaxed or inactive manner

Doing something in a slow and relaxed way, without much effort or energy. Often associated with being idle or lethargic.

Synonyms

apathetically, indolently, lethargically, sluggishly.

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Word Description / Examples
lazily

Appropriate when describing actions done without haste or effort, often in a relaxed manner.

  • She lay lazily on the couch, basking in the afternoon sun
  • The dog stretched lazily after its nap
lethargically

Describes actions with a lack of energy and sluggishness, often suggesting a physical or mental state of low vitality.

  • He moved lethargically, struggling to stay awake
  • On hot days, we often feel lethargically sluggish
sluggishly

Highlights slow, inefficient movement or action, often with a connotation of reduced speed or laziness.

  • Traffic moved sluggishly during the rush hour
  • She responded sluggishly to the questions, clearly not fully awake yet
indolently

Describes a lazy or avoidant attitude, often suggesting a deliberate choice to avoid activity or effort.

  • She indolently ignored her chores, preferring to watch TV
  • The cat lounged indolently on the windowsill, showing no inclination to move
apathetically

Used to describe actions or attitudes that show a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern, often with a negative connotation.

  • He listened to the meeting apathetically, not contributing any ideas
  • Students sat apathetically in the classroom, uninterested in the lecture

Examples of usage

  • He lazily stretched his arms before getting out of bed.
  • She lazily flipped through the pages of the magazine.
  • The cat lazily basked in the sun on the windowsill.
  • I lazily scrolled through social media instead of doing my work.
  • We spent the afternoon lazily lounging by the pool.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Insights

  • In many cultures, being 'lazy' is often viewed negatively, but some philosophies encourage relaxation as a means to improve well-being.
  • In the 21st century, the concept of 'lazy' living has been embraced in movements like 'slow living,' promoting a slower, more sustainable lifestyle.
  • Sloths, known for their laziness, symbolize a laid-back attitude and are often used in popular culture to represent the importance of taking life easy.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that slower-paced activities can enhance creativity and problem-solving, contradicting the stigma around being lazy.
  • The 'lazy paradox' in psychology states that people who feel lazy often may just be overwhelmed and in need of a break.
  • Cognitive functions can improve with more leisurely activities, as they help reduce stress and increase mental clarity.

Literature

  • Famous works explore themes of idleness, such as 'The Lazy Man's Way to Riches' by Joe Karbo, advocating for working smarter, not harder.
  • In many narratives, characters who act lazily often experience transformative journeys that challenge societal norms about productivity.
  • Poets like Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson often depicted themes of nature and relaxation, intertwining laziness with beauty and reflection.

Origin of 'lazily'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'lazily' comes from 'lazy,' which has roots in the Old English word 'leisig,' meaning 'idle' or 'careless.'
  • The addition of 'ly' turns the adjective 'lazy' into an adverb, describing how an action is performed.
  • The word entered common usage in the English language around the late 15th century.

The adverb 'lazily' is derived from the adjective 'lazy', which originated in the late 16th century from the Middle Low German word 'lasich' meaning 'idle, weary'. Over time, the word evolved to describe a lack of effort or energy in various activities. The adverb 'lazily' captures the essence of moving or acting slowly and relaxed, often associated with a sense of idleness or leisure.


See also: laziness, lazybones.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,316, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.