languid

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'languid' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a person or thing that is feeling or appearing weak, tired, or lacking in energy. For example, "The languid sun slowly set behind the horizon, casting an orange glow across the sky."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A donkey's plod is the perfect pace for this languid region.

The Guardian - Travel

Them is a glowering, languid novel of mid-century Detroit which straddles economic extremes as it steams toward a cataclysmic unraveling during the July 1967 uprising.

The Guardian - Books

The rest of the time you are free to enjoy long, languid days sailing between islands and landing your dinghy on deserted beaches.

The Guardian - Travel

Largely that's as a result of vocalist Harry Burgess, whose vocal lines veer from languid tenor croon to something resembling a wasp bobbing about on a string, though he's matched step-for-step by skittering, spindly guitar lines and a restless rhythm section.

The Guardian - Music

Life is a languid affair here.

The Guardian - Travel

Everyone should calm down.Britain has not been here beforeThis approach is too languid.

The Economist

In April China's money supply grew at the slowest rate on record; fixed-asset investment rose by 12% in January to April, the most languid pace since late 2000.Despite a slowdown in Germany, the euro zone managed to chalk up growth of 0.4% in the first three months of the year compared with the fourth quarter of 2014, the fastest rate in nearly two years.

The Economist

Gorgeous manuscripts with arcane symbols, wise old monastic teachers and marauders at the gate (Vikings, in this case) are enjoyably combined in this Franco-Belgo-Irish collaboration.Then recall the languid, patrician tones of Lord Clark, holding forth on the subject of civilisation: a fond memory for many a middle-aged art historian.

The Economist

The state-owned chain, Ruch, offers cluttered layout, dim lighting and languid, even snarling service.

The Economist

WARM and languid, yet pregnant with autumn, August is the time for many Europeans to forget their cares.

The Economist

If the deal for which the British government and Tony Blair, then prime minister, lobbied actively proves to be corrupt, it will have damaged the country's fledgling democracy, says Andrew Feinstein, a former South African MP who was involved in earlier probes of the matter.BAE is trying to burnish its reputation, but it is all a bit languid.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "languid" to evoke a sense of peacefulness or relaxation, especially when describing natural scenes or atmospheres. It suggests a gentle slowness rather than outright inactivity.

Common error

Avoid using "languid" to describe someone who is deliberately avoiding work. While both terms imply a lack of activity, "languid" suggests a gentle, often involuntary, slowness, while "lazy" implies a conscious choice to be inactive.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "languid" primarily functions to modify nouns, describing a state of inactivity, slowness, or lack of energy. Ludwig provides examples such as "languid days" or "languid pace", illustrating its descriptive role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adjective "languid" correctly describes something lacking energy, enthusiasm, or moving slowly with a sense of relaxation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in diverse contexts. While "languid" is frequently used in News & Media and Encyclopedias, it is important to differentiate it from words like "lazy". The provided writing guidance and FAQs offer practical advice on using "languid" effectively and avoiding common mistakes. The related phrases further expand understanding of its nuanced meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

listless

Suggests a lack of interest or enthusiasm, focusing more on the mental or emotional state than physical energy.

lethargic

Indicates a state of sluggishness and apathy, implying a stronger sense of inactivity than "languid".

sluggish

Implies slow movement or reaction, focusing on the physical aspect of reduced activity.

enervated

Suggests a state of being drained of energy or vitality, highlighting the effect of fatigue.

relaxed

Emphasizes a state of calmness and freedom from tension, a more positive connotation compared to "languid".

indolent

Implies a disposition to avoid exertion, suggesting laziness as a character trait.

lackadaisical

Indicates a careless or unenthusiastic approach, suggesting a lack of effort or diligence.

placid

Describes a calm and undisturbed state, emphasizing peacefulness rather than a lack of energy.

tranquil

Suggests a peaceful and serene atmosphere or state, highlighting calmness and absence of disturbance.

unhurried

Emphasizes the absence of haste or urgency, focusing on the pace of activity rather than energy levels.

FAQs

How can I use "languid" in a sentence?

You can use "languid" to describe something that lacks energy or moves slowly. For example, "The "languid river" flowed gently through the valley" or "She moved with a "languid grace"".

What words can I use instead of "languid"?

Alternatives to "languid" include "lethargic", "listless", "relaxed", or "sluggish", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "languid" and "lethargic"?

"Languid" suggests a gentle slowness or relaxed quality, while "lethargic" implies a stronger sense of sluggishness, apathy, or exhaustion.

Is it appropriate to describe a person as "languid"?

Yes, describing a person as "languid" suggests they are moving slowly and gracefully, or lacking energy in a pleasant, relaxed way. However, be mindful of the context, as it can sometimes imply a lack of motivation.