Laziness: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing someone who is unwilling to work or make an effort. It has a negative connotation.

• His laziness is the reason he never finishes his tasks on time.
• She blamed her laziness for not getting enough exercise.

Refers to a state of being inactive or not in use, often implying a waste of time or potential. It can be used neutrally but often has a slightly negative undertone.

• During periods of idleness, he tends to daydream.
• The machine fell into idleness after the production line was shut down.

A stronger term often associated with one of the seven deadly sins, it describes extreme laziness and an unwillingness to make any effort. It always has a negative connotation.

• His sloth was evident in his lack of personal hygiene.
• She accused him of sloth when he refused to look for a job.

Describes a lack of action or movement. This term is often used in formal or technical contexts, such as health or work.

• Prolonged inactivity can lead to health problems.
• The project suffered from months of inactivity before it was restarted.

Describes a state of sluggishness, tiredness, or lack of energy. It often suggests a physical or mental condition.

• After the long flight, she felt an overwhelming sense of lethargy.
• His lethargy was a symptom of his illness.

Laziness implies a general unwillingness to work or use energy. It is often used when commenting on a person's lifestyle or work habits.

• His laziness kept him from exercising regularly.
• She didn't clean the house because of her laziness.

Procrastination specifically relates to delaying or postponing tasks or decisions. It often highlights a habitual or intentional putting off of important things.

• Procrastination can lead to missed deadlines and poor performance.
• He fought his procrastination by setting strict schedules.

Sluggishness describes slowness or lack of energy, often due to tiredness, illness, or lack of motivation. It can refer to both people and objects.

• The team's sluggishness was evident in their slow pace during the game.
• After a heavy lunch, he felt sluggish and drowsy.

Dawdling refers to wasting time by moving slowly or being inefficient. It is typically used in situations where promptness is expected.

• Stop dawdling and get ready for school.
• We missed the bus because she was dawdling.

Apathy is often used to describe a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. It is more about emotional or mental indifference than physical inactivity.

• The student's apathy towards his studies was evident.
• There was general apathy among the voters this election.