idle pursuits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "idle pursuits" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to activities that are considered unproductive or lacking in purpose, often associated with leisure or relaxation. Example: "While some may view reading as an idle pursuit, it can actually foster creativity and critical thinking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Walking is the most harmless of idle pursuits, although in their day, Coleridge and Wordsworth's jaunts were seen as suspicious by the authorities.

The Guardian - Travel

Two of her three middle-aged children, Lucille and Lewis, live at home, catering to her cordially while following their own mostly idle pursuits.

The New York Times

As with many in fashion, Spencer's idle pursuits betray equal attention to high and low culture: he loves visiting London's National Trust buildings and playing Mario Kart on his Wii.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

It's no idle pursuit, either.

Independent

It was not an idle pursuit.

The New York Times

Collecting them is no idle pursuit, however.

The Economist

Still, calculating the zeros of zeta is not an idle pursuit.

The New York Times - Science

This kind of philosophy is not an idle pursuit but a crucial tool.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As Freud wrote almost three decades later, "the study on coca was an ­allotrion" — an idle pursuit that distracts from serious responsibilities — "which I was eager to conclude".

The New York Times - Books

Narrator: It started as an idle pursuit: a way to pass the time, to occupy the slackened jaw of street urchin and steel magnate alike.

The New Yorker

Some of the definitions Johnson later entered under "vanity" in his Dictionary suggest the range of meaning of his title, including "emptiness," "uncertainty," "fruitless desire, fruitless endeavour," "empty pleasure; vain pursuit; idle show; unsubstantial enjoyment; petty object of pride," and "arrogance".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "idle pursuits", consider the connotation. It often implies a lack of productivity or purpose, so ensure this aligns with your intended meaning. If a more positive or neutral tone is desired, consider "leisurely activities" or "recreational activities".

Common error

Be mindful of the potentially negative connotation of "idle pursuits". While accurate in some contexts, it can sound judgmental or dismissive. If the intention is simply to describe hobbies or pastimes without judgment, a more neutral term like "hobbies" or "interests" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "idle pursuits" functions as a noun phrase, where "idle" is an adjective modifying the noun "pursuits". It typically describes activities or hobbies that lack a practical or serious purpose. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "idle pursuits" refers to activities that are primarily done for leisure and aren't considered productive or essential. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and usable. While it's typically neutral in register, it's important to be mindful of the potentially negative connotation, as it can imply a lack of purpose. Consider alternative phrases like "leisurely activities" or "recreational activities" if a more positive or neutral tone is desired. Occurring most frequently in news media and encyclopedia sources, "idle pursuits" is a valid but uncommon phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leisurely activities

Focuses on the relaxed and unhurried nature of the activities.

unproductive activities

Highlights the lack of tangible output or progress.

frivolous pastimes

Emphasizes the lighthearted and non-serious quality of the activities.

recreational activities

Broadly refers to activities done for enjoyment.

pastime activities

Underscores the function of the activities as ways to pass time.

aimless occupations

Highlights the lack of direction or purpose.

trivial endeavors

Emphasizes the lack of importance or significance.

non-essential hobbies

Focuses on the optional and non-necessary nature of the activities.

insignificant tasks

Highlights the low impact or value of the activities.

unserious engagements

Emphasizes the informal and playful nature of the activities.

FAQs

What does "idle pursuits" mean?

"Idle pursuits" refers to activities that are unproductive, leisurely, or lacking in serious purpose. They are often pastimes or hobbies that are not essential or necessary.

What are some synonyms for "idle pursuits"?

Synonyms for "idle pursuits" include "leisurely activities", "unproductive activities", and "frivolous pastimes".

Is it correct to use "idle pursuits" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "idle pursuits" might be perceived as slightly informal or judgmental in certain formal contexts. Consider the intended tone and audience; more neutral alternatives may be preferable.

How can I use "idle pursuits" in a sentence?

You can use "idle pursuits" in a sentence like this: "Two of her three middle-aged children live at home, catering to her cordially while following their own mostly "idle pursuits".