WordGarden.iolazy
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /lˈeɪzi/
US
- /ˈleɪzi/
Meanings
Adjective
habitually unwilling to work or make an effort
slow, relaxed, or low in energy or activity
computed, loaded, or evaluated only when needed
Beyond the definition
Being lazy isn't just about not wanting to do things; it's about a general unwillingness to exert effort. Think of a cat basking in the sun—perfectly content to do absolutely nothing! While everyone needs downtime, someone who is consistently lazy avoids work or activities even when they should be doing them. A student might be labeled lazy if they repeatedly skip homework assignments, and a worker could be considered lazy if they constantly procrastinate and avoid taking on new tasks. It's not always about physical effort; sometimes it is mental—being lazy can mean avoiding difficult thinking or problem-solving.
The word "lazy" describes someone who is unwilling to work or use energy. It implies a lack of motivation, enthusiasm, and a tendency to avoid exertion. However, "lazy" isn't always a simple judgment; sometimes it stems from exhaustion, burnout, or even a different way of prioritizing things.
Historically, the word likely traces back to Low German roots meaning "feeble" or "weak," rather than just a lack of character. While often used negatively, understanding why someone appears lazy can be important. A dog might seem lazy on a hot day, but it is simply conserving energy. However, consistently avoiding responsibilities—like a character in a story who refuses to help with chores despite having plenty of time—is where the negative connotation comes into play.
"Lazy" can describe people ("He's a bit lazy around the house"), animals ("The cat was too lazy to chase the mouse"), or even things that move slowly and peacefully ("The lazy river at the water park"). It's often used in contrast with words like "industrious," "diligent," or "motivated."
It's important to remember that everyone needs rest and relaxation. But when a lack of effort becomes a pattern, hindering progress or causing problems for others, then "lazy" is an appropriate descriptor. So while a little laziness now and then is normal, a consistent unwillingness to act can have consequences—and earn you the label!
Examples
- 1
Household habits
My brother is lazy and leaves his clothes all over the floor.
- 2
Low energy
I felt lazy after lunch, so I stayed on the sofa for an hour.
- 3
Avoiding cooking
She was too lazy to cook, so she ordered noodles.
- 4
Email habits
He is lazy about answering emails.
- Patternlazy about + doing something
not making enough effort to do it regularly or quickly
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Careless work
The report was full of lazy mistakes.
- Phraselazy mistakes
mistakes caused by not checking carefully
- 6
Shallow thinking
Calling every disagreement a fight is lazy thinking.
- Phraselazy thinking
using easy ideas instead of thinking carefully
- 7
Relaxed day
We spent a lazy Sunday reading and drinking coffee.
- Phrasea lazy day
slow, relaxed, and not busy
- 8
Slow river
The boat drifted down the lazy river.
- Phrasea lazy river
a river that moves slowly and gently
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- hardworking
- diligent
Used with (collocations)
- too lazy to
- lazy person
- lazy excuse
- lazy about chores
Word family
Explore
- procrastination
- work ethic
Forms and spellings
3 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- lazyadjective
Forms
- laziestsuperlativeadjective
- laziercomparativeadjective