lack of alacrity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of alacrity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is a noticeable absence of eagerness or promptness in response or action. Example: "The team's lack of alacrity in addressing the urgent issue led to further complications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In a point gingerly acknowledged by some officials, the country's security services have grown accustomed to a $6 billion-plus national security budget, one-quarter of the government's total budget, and have shown a surprising lack of alacrity in responding to some recent atrocities.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

American diplomats said the Russian president, Vladimir V. Putin, had impressed the group in his debut at this venue, displaying alacrity and a lack of the ebullience associated with his predecessor, Boris N. Yeltsin.

The New York Times

The angel is a wonderment of alacrity.

The New Yorker

Anni Albers employs staccato diagonals to achieve a sense of alacrity.

The New York Times

By virtue of alacrity and "the extra minute of knowledge" that birth order bestowed, Karl was the team captain.

The New York Times

They also have irresistible names like the Claymore of Alacrity or the Jagged Bastard Sword of Gore.

The New York Times - Tech

"The only way to do that with some degree of alacrity is under the provisions of binding arbitration".

The New York Times

Now, Cleanthes, said Philo, with an air of alacrity and triumph, mark the consequences.

SEP

Invest in Greater Mark of Alacrity x9, Greater Seal of Alacrity x9, Greater Glyph of Alacrity x9, and Greater Quintessence of Alacrity x9.

WikiHow

This alacrity stands in sharp contrast with their evident lack of concern when a senior administration official, still unknown, blew the cover of a C.I.A. operative because her husband had revealed some politically inconvenient facts.

The New York Times

The alacrity with which this investigation was opened was, of course, in sharp contrast with the administration's evident lack of interest in finding out who leaked the identity of the C.I.A. operative Valerie Plame to Bob Novak.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lack of alacrity", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specific action or response is lacking in promptness. For instance, specify "lack of alacrity in responding to customer inquiries" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "lack of alacrity" in informal or casual writing. The phrase's formality may sound unnatural in such settings. Opt for simpler, more direct alternatives like "slow to respond" or "unenthusiastic".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of alacrity" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the absence of prompt and cheerful readiness, as evidenced by Ludwig, which indicates its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lack of alacrity" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a deficiency in promptness and eagerness. Ludwig confirms its proper usage, although its relative rarity suggests a preference for more common alternatives in informal contexts. The phrase is most frequently found in news and formal business settings, implying a formal and professional register. When using "lack of alacrity", ensure clarity by specifying the context where promptness is lacking, and avoid it in casual conversation where simpler alternatives suffice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sluggishness

Focuses on the slow or delayed nature of the response.

lack of enthusiasm

Emphasizes the absence of excitement or eagerness.

indifference

Highlights a lack of concern or interest.

apathy

Suggests a deeper lack of feeling or motivation.

lethargy

Indicates a state of fatigue or inactivity.

torpor

Implies a state of dormancy or sluggishness.

disinclination

Focuses on unwillingness or reluctance.

hesitation

Emphasizes a pause or delay due to uncertainty or reluctance.

reluctance

Highlights a lack of willingness to act.

tardiness

Specifically refers to lateness or slowness.

FAQs

How can I use "lack of alacrity" in a sentence?

You can use "lack of alacrity" to describe a situation where there's a noticeable absence of eagerness or quickness. For example: "The committee's lack of alacrity in addressing the budget concerns led to further delays."

What are some alternatives to "lack of alacrity"?

Alternatives include "sluggishness", "lack of enthusiasm", or "indifference", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "lack of alacrity" or "absence of alacrity"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "lack of alacrity" is more common and generally preferred for its conciseness. "Absence of alacrity" may sound slightly more formal but serves the same purpose.

What's the difference between "lack of alacrity" and "reluctance"?

"Lack of alacrity" implies a slowness or lack of eagerness in responding or acting. "Reluctance", on the other hand, focuses more on an unwillingness or hesitation to do something, suggesting a more active form of resistance or disinclination.