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Listlessly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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listlessly

[หˆlษชstlษชsli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

feeling or behaving in a way that shows you have no energy or enthusiasm

If you do something listlessly, you do it without any interest or energy, often because you are feeling tired or bored.

Synonyms

apathetically, half-heartedly, limply.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
listlessly

When someone has no energy or interest in what they are doing. Often used to describe physical or mental fatigue.

  • She lay on the couch listlessly, not even bothering to change the channel.
  • The students worked listlessly through the long and tedious assignment.
apathetically

When someone shows a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern. This term may carry a more negative connotation as it suggests a deeper level of disinterest or detachment.

  • He listened apathetically as his friend talked about their problems.
  • She answered the questions apathetically, clearly not invested in the conversation.
limply

When describing something that is weak, without stiffness or firmness. Often used in physical context, like how someone moves or holds something.

  • He held the towel limply in his hands, too tired to wring it out.
  • The flag hung limply in the windless air.
half-heartedly

When someone is doing something with minimal effort or enthusiasm, usually because they do not want to do it or do not care about it.

  • He cleaned his room half-heartedly, knowing that he would have to do it again tomorrow.
  • She smiled half-heartedly, not really feeling the joy she was trying to express.

Examples of usage

  • She sat listlessly on the sofa, staring blankly out of the window.
  • He walked listlessly through the park, not noticing the beauty around him.
Context #2 | Adverb

in a manner lacking energy or enthusiasm

Listlessly is used to describe someone's actions when they are done without interest or effort.

Synonyms

indifferently, lethargically, unenthusiastically.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
listlessly

Used when describing someone who lacks energy or interest, often in a temporary state of exhaustion or boredom.

  • He listlessly turned the pages of the book, not really absorbing what he was reading
lethargically

Used when someone is sluggish or has a persistent lack of energy, often suggesting a more serious state of fatigue or illness.

  • The cat moved lethargically after its long nap, barely lifting its head
indifferently

Suitable for situations where someone shows a lack of interest or concern, often implying a neutral or detached attitude.

  • She listened indifferently as he explained his point of view, showing no signs of emotion
unenthusiastically

Appropriate in scenarios where someone displays a lack of excitement or enthusiasm, typically when they were expected to show more interest.

  • He nodded unenthusiastically when asked if he wanted to join the team outing

Examples of usage

  • She responded to the questions listlessly, showing no excitement or passion.
  • He worked listlessly on the project, unable to muster any motivation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Listlessness can be associated with feelings of depression or anxiety, reflecting a lack of motivation.
  • In psychology, it is often linked to burnout, where individuals feel drained and incapable of engaging in activities.
  • Studying emotions, scientists find that listlessness can also indicate a period of introspection or a need for change.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and literature often portray characters as listless during moments of existential crisis, emphasizing their emotional struggles.
  • Songs about feeling listless or aimless capture the sentiments of youth and the quest for purpose, resonating with many listeners.
  • Listlessness is a common theme in art, often used to symbolize modern life's disconnection and dissatisfaction.

Health

  • Physical ailments, such as anemia or thyroid issues, can lead to listlessness, demonstrating a link between body and mind.
  • Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise can help alleviate feelings of listlessness and improve overall energy levels.
  • A common recommendation for combatting listlessness is engaging in mindfulness activities, which can rejuvenate interest and motivation.

Literature

  • Classic novels often explore themes of listlessness, mirroring societal disillusionment, such as in 'The Great Gatsby.'
  • Poets use the term to evoke a sense of yearning or emptiness, making the reader feel the weight of inactivity.
  • Contemporary authors address feelings of listlessness in characters navigating complex modern lives, reflecting a shared experience.

Origin of 'listlessly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'list' (meaning weakened or tired) and the suffix '-lessly' which indicates without.
  • It emerged in the early 19th century, reflecting the growing awareness of mental fatigue and ennui.
  • Related words such as 'listless' have roots in old English, where 'list' implied a desire or wish that had diminished.

The word 'listlessly' is derived from the word 'listless', which originated in the early 18th century. It combines 'list', meaning desire or inclination, with the suffix '-less', indicating a lack of the specified quality. Over time, 'listlessly' has come to represent a state of lacking energy or enthusiasm.

See also: listlessness.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,794, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.