loafer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "loafer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person who is lazy or avoids work, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "He spent the entire summer as a loafer, lounging by the pool instead of looking for a job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One of the most versatile actors of his generation, he inhabits psycho, soft touch, lover or loafer so convincingly that people often fail to realise it's the same man.

The Guardian - Film

Known affectionately as "PNoy", blending his title, his own nickname and the national one, he is often portrayed as an amiable, rather happy-go-lucky loafer who drifted into Malacanang on a wave of nostalgia and popular sympathy following his mother's death.

The Economist

Featured in roughly 130 strips in Judy an imitator of Punch magazine and in albums published separately between 1869 and the 1880s, Ally Sloper was a scheming proletarian loafer, the star of rather formless and crudely, even childishly drawn "gag" strips.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The news that former Fenerbahçe star Alex has flung off his wedding band and announced himself to be "out there" has thrown more than a few Brazilian clubs into a frenzy of loafer polishing, cologne dousing, and nostril hair plucking, in the hope of wooing the experienced midfielder back to their particular corner of the motherland.

Independent

The Balenciaga block colour loafer is exclusive to us in this colourway, and the stack heel looks great with wide-leg trousers – particularly in camel, as they incorporate some of that shade – and is quite easy to walk in.

Independent

Eerily, Gaucher received an order for a batch of Repetto shoes for Michael Jackson on the day he died, and after the singer's death the label's "Jackson loafer" – inspired by him and worn by Kate Moss – sold out in their Paris store and the company had to start a waiting list and increase production.

Independent

Heeled loafer, £1,750, Balenciaga 'Dolly Sandalss, £510, Opening Ceremony by Robert Clergerie Trousers, £50, Next , 0844 8448 939Minimal Shift Dress These Dior ankle boots are good for curvy calves because they come in at the ankle to focus attention on them.

Independent

Boy's Own Finish an androgynous look with a classic lace-up or loafer – the latter may come with a heel just now, but best perhaps leave that to the fashion victim.

Independent

They seem older and could be mistaken for historical nudes until you notice a pair of cheap loafer shoes, or a bulky wristwatch, which shifts the figure into the present.

Independent

Outside the UK, Clarks is seen as more premium and fashion-y than inside (think of Liam Gallagher or Hugh Grant in their original desert boots, as famous a world classic as the Gucci loafer).

Independent

Anxious to take advantage of every possible shopping second, an Italian man tried on two pairs of Vuitton shoes at once, wearing a white tennis shoe on his right foot and a loafer in gleaming black patent leather on his left.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person as a "loafer", be mindful of the context and connotations; consider whether a more neutral term like "unemployed" or "between jobs" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "loafer" when describing someone who is actively disengaged or sabotaging work, as "loafer" implies passive laziness rather than active disruption. Instead, consider terms like "disruptive employee" or "saboteur" for more accurate description.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "loafer" is as a noun, referring to either a lazy person or a type of shoe. As Ludwig AI indicates, it correctly functions as a noun within sentences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Academia

7%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "loafer" functions primarily as a noun, denoting either a lazy individual or a specific style of shoe. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical usage, and the provided examples highlight its presence across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Encyclopedias. While generally neutral in register, careful consideration should be given to the context when referring to an individual as a "loafer", and synonyms such as "idler", "sluggard", or "layabout", could be more appropriate in some circumstances. It's also important to avoid using "loafer" to describe intentionally disruptive behaviour, ensuring accuracy in word choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

penny loafer

Specifies a particular style of "loafer" with a distinctive strap detail.

idler

Replaces "loafer" when referring to a person who avoids work or is habitually lazy.

layabout

Similar to "loafer", highlighting someone who spends their time idling and avoiding work.

sluggard

Similar to "loafer", but often implies a moral judgment about being lazy.

bum

An informal term for a "loafer", often referring to someone who is unemployed and drifting.

good-for-nothing

This phrase is a more judgmental synonym for "loafer", emphasizing a lack of value or purpose.

lazybones

A playful term for a "loafer", usually directed at someone who is being playfully lazy.

dolce far niente

An Italian phrase that means "delightful idleness" or the pleasure of doing nothing, suggesting a more positive spin on being a "loafer".

moccasin

Replaces "loafer" when referring to the shoe style, highlighting its soft, slip-on design.

slip-on shoe

A broader term for "loafer" referring to shoes without laces or buckles.

FAQs

How can I use "loafer" in a sentence?

You can use "loafer" to describe someone who is lazy or avoids work, like in the sentence: "He was known as the town "loafer" because he never held a job for long."

What can I say instead of "loafer"?

You can use alternatives like "idler", "sluggard", or "bum" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "loafer" or "lounger"?

"Loafer" typically refers to someone who is lazy or avoids work, while "lounger" refers to someone who relaxes or idles. They are similar but not interchangeable.

What's the difference between a "loafer" and a "layabout"?

Both "loafer" and "layabout" describe someone who is lazy and avoids work, but "layabout" often carries a stronger connotation of disapproval or moral judgment.