listlessness

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "listlessness" is correct and well written in English.
It can be used to describe a state of lacking energy or enthusiasm, often associated with boredom or apathy. Example: "After weeks of isolation, she felt a deep sense of listlessness that made it hard to find motivation." Alternatives include "lethargy" or "apathy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But most of the pre-revolutionary 1970s were conspicuous for their listlessness, too.

The Economist

The enduring listlessness of the economy makes that a tricky sell.

The Economist

One is listlessness and drift, as discipline crumbles, morale plummets and ideas dry up.

The Economist

Still, it seems as though we humans are more comfortable around the humanoid variety, their listlessness notwithstanding.

The Economist

In the short term, such measures seem to have succeeded: the student movement has quietened down, and there is listlessness in the air.

The Economist

Peter begins to display the classic signs of middle-aged listlessness.

The Economist

It advises using it before competitions to correct listlessness and sleep disruption, and afterwards to improve physical recovery.

The Economist

In truth, the Ethiopians are leaving because they are fed up with the vanity of Somalia's president, Yusuf Abdullahi, and his constant bickering with his prime minister, Nur Hussein; fed up, too, with the listlessness of the African Union (AU) and the UN.

The Economist

His decision to leave the White House came after the release of more economic data that underscore the listlessness of the recovery.

The Economist

The revisions, which reveal a larger gap between potential and actual GDP, shift the field in favour of the deflation worriers, who may argue for more accommodative policy at the Fed's meeting on August 10th.The new data might reasonably absolve the Democrats of at least some blame for the economy's continued listlessness.

The Economist

In his early weeks in power he lit a rocket under the bureaucracy (though he is still said to be aghast at the resistance, listlessness and lack of capacity he has met among even senior civil servants).

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "listlessness" when you want to describe a state of inactivity or indifference caused by boredom, apathy, or fatigue. It is particularly effective in describing a general lack of engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "listlessness" as a self-diagnosis for deeper emotional issues. While it can describe temporary apathy, persistent lack of motivation might indicate clinical depression, requiring professional evaluation.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "listlessness" is as a noun. It represents a state or condition characterized by a lack of energy, enthusiasm, or motivation. Ludwig provides examples from various sources demonstrating its usage to describe a general feeling of inertia or apathy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Encyclopedias

13%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "listlessness" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed noun that describes a state of lacking energy, enthusiasm, or motivation. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and offers numerous examples from diverse sources, predominantly News & Media and Encyclopedias, illustrating its use in various contexts. While the term is versatile and appropriate for neutral registers, writers should be mindful not to confuse transient "listlessness" with clinical depression. Alternatives such as "lethargy", "apathy", and "lack of enthusiasm" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feeling of lethargy

Highlights the physical and mental slowness.

state of apathy

Emphasizes indifference and a lack of concern.

lack of motivation

Focuses specifically on the absence of drive or incentive.

lack of enthusiasm

Focuses on the absence of excitement or eagerness.

spiritlessness

Emphasizes the absence of vitality or enthusiasm.

general inertia

Indicates a lack of movement or progress.

passivity

Highlights the state of being inactive and accepting without resistance.

sense of ennui

Implies a feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction.

inactivity

Directly refers to the state of not being active or engaged.

torpid condition

Suggests a state of dormancy or reduced activity.

FAQs

How can I use "listlessness" in a sentence?

"Listlessness" is often used to describe a state of lacking energy or enthusiasm. For example, you might say, "The long winter months brought a sense of listlessness to the town."

What are some synonyms for "listlessness"?

Alternatives to "listlessness" include "lethargy", "apathy", and "torpor". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "listlessness" and depression?

"Listlessness" is a general term for a lack of energy or enthusiasm. Depression is a clinical condition involving persistent sadness, loss of interest, and other symptoms. While listlessness can be a symptom of depression, it doesn't necessarily indicate clinical depression.

Is "listlessness" a formal or informal term?

"Listlessness" is a neutral term suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.