Otiose: meaning, definitions and examples

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otiose

 

[ ˈōtēˌōs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

unnecessary action

The term 'otiose' refers to something that is useless or serving no practical purpose. It describes actions, efforts, or tasks that are redundant or superfluous. In a broader sense, it can also indicate a state of idleness or inactivity. For example, an otiose exercise would not contribute to one's fitness goals.

Synonyms

idle, ineffective, pointless, superfluous, useless

Examples of usage

  • The discussion was largely otiose and did not lead to any conclusions.
  • She felt her contributions to the project were otiose and unappreciated.
  • Engaging in otiose arguments can waste valuable time.
  • His otiose remarks during the meeting were met with eye-rolls.
  • The team decided to eliminate otiose steps from their workflow.

Translations

Translations of the word "otiose" in other languages:

🇵🇹 otioso

🇮🇳 व्यर्थ

🇩🇪 überflüssig

🇮🇩 tidak berguna

🇺🇦 марний

🇵🇱 bezużyteczny

🇯🇵 無駄な

🇫🇷 inutile

🇪🇸 inútil

🇹🇷 gereksiz

🇰🇷 무용한

🇸🇦 غير مفيد

🇨🇿 zbytečný

🇸🇰 zbytočný

🇨🇳 无用的

🇸🇮 odveč

🇮🇸 óþarfur

🇰🇿 пайдасыз

🇬🇪 არასრულფასოვანი

🇦🇿 faydasız

🇲🇽 inútil

Etymology

The word 'otiose' originates from the Latin word 'otiosus,' which means 'at leisure' or 'idle.' This Latin term is derived from 'otium,' meaning 'leisure' or 'ease.' It entered the English language in the early 17th century, aligning with an increasing interest in classical languages and literature during the Renaissance. The concept conveyed by 'otiose' has historical roots in discussions about the value of leisure in society and the philosophical debate around idleness versus productivity. As modern language evolved, 'otiose' maintained its connotation of something unproductive or without purpose, often criticized in discussions about efficiency and effective work.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,763, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.