seem listless

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seem listless" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that appears to lack energy, enthusiasm, or interest. Example: "After the long meeting, the team members seemed listless, struggling to stay engaged in the discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Many of the AU's 400 staff seem listless.

The Economist

In Sadr City, in northern Baghdad, the show of disarming by the Mahdi Army, the militia loyal to the rebel cleric Moktada al-Sadr, began to seem listless.

The New York Times

If the pain is severe the dog may lose his appetite, and seem listless.

WikiHow

Mr. Dillon's office can seem listless by comparison, as it also did in what appeared to be a half-hearted investigation of abuses by priests in Long Island's Roman Catholic diocese, whose headquarters are in Nassau.

The New York Times

If the seizure lasts longer than 10 minutes, call emergency services and have the child examined (especially if they have a stiff neck, are vomiting or seem listless or lethargic).[11].[11]

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Gorse Jeffries, his mother, told me that he had seemed listless.

The New Yorker

A few others would make the cut: a little girl with malaria, a malnourished boy, a girl with an unexplained fever who seemed listless.

The New York Times

Mr. McCall has seemed listless on the campaign trail since last month, when he weathered criticism over letters he had written on official stationery recommending his daughter and friends for jobs.

The New York Times

But sitting in his corner chair sipping his watered-down Maxwell House coffee in a clear glass mug, my Dad seemed listless.

Los Angeles Times

The president seemed listless, defensive and not particularly well prepared.

The New York Times

Everybody in his coach seemed listless; there was practically no conversation, & newspapers lay idly in laps.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seem listless" to describe a temporary state of reduced energy or enthusiasm, often in response to a specific situation or event. For example, "After the long meeting, the team members seemed listless."

Common error

Avoid using "seem listless" to describe chronic conditions like depression or chronic fatigue syndrome. It's more appropriate for temporary states. Use more descriptive terms for persistent conditions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem listless" functions as a verb phrase. It typically acts as a predicate adjective, where "seem" is a linking verb connecting the subject to the adjective "listless", describing the subject's apparent state of being. Ludwig confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seem listless" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe a temporary lack of energy or enthusiasm. Ludwig AI analysis confirms the phrase's correctness and provides various examples from reputable sources, mainly from the News & Media category. When using this phrase, consider the context and ensure it accurately reflects a temporary state rather than a chronic condition. Alternatives like "appear lethargic" or "look apathetic" can offer subtle shifts in meaning, allowing for more precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appear lethargic

Focuses on a lack of energy and activity, suggesting a stronger sense of inactivity than "seem listless".

look apathetic

Emphasizes a lack of interest or concern, highlighting emotional disengagement rather than physical sluggishness.

appear unenthusiastic

Highlights a lack of excitement or eagerness, focusing on the absence of positive feelings.

seem uninterested

Stresses a lack of engagement or attention, suggesting a disinclination to participate.

look spiritless

Indicates a lack of vitality or zest, emphasizing a diminished sense of inner energy.

appear passive

Highlights a lack of active involvement or initiative, focusing on a receptive rather than proactive stance.

seem subdued

Suggests a quiet or restrained demeanor, implying a reduction in energy or expressiveness.

look languid

Implies a relaxed or unhurried manner, often suggesting a lack of physical exertion or energy.

appear enervated

Indicates a state of being drained of energy or vitality, highlighting a significant reduction in strength or motivation.

seem indolent

Suggests a tendency to avoid activity or exertion, emphasizing a preference for laziness or idleness.

FAQs

How can I use "seem listless" in a sentence?

You can use "seem listless" to describe someone or something that appears to lack energy or enthusiasm. For example: "The candidate "seemed listless" during the debate" or "The Mahdi Army "seemed listless"".

What are some alternatives to "seem listless"?

Alternatives include "appear lethargic", "look apathetic", or "appear unenthusiastic", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "seem listless"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. "Seem" is a linking verb, and "listless" is an adjective describing the subject's apparent state.

What's the difference between "seem listless" and "is listless"?

"Seem listless" implies an appearance or impression of being without energy, while "is listless" suggests a definite and confirmed state of lacking energy. "Seem listless" leaves room for doubt, while "is listless" is more definitive.