bone-idle
/'boun'aidl/ Cách viết khác : (bone-lazy) /'boun'leizi/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: - Constitutionally lazy or idle: Describes a person who is inherently, extremely, and habitually lazy; laziness is a fundamental part of their nature.
Usage
This adjective is used attributively (before a noun) or predicatively (after a linking verb like 'be') to describe a person's deep-seated and pronounced laziness. It is an informal, emphatic term, often expressing criticism or frustration.
Examples
- Attributive use:
- Predicative use:
Advanced Usage
- The term is hyphenated. Its strength comes from the metaphor "bone," suggesting the laziness goes all the way to the core, to the very bones.
- It often implies a refusal to work or make an effort, rather than just a temporary state of relaxation.
Variants and Related Words
- Bone-lazy (adjective): A direct synonym with identical meaning and usage.
- Idle (adjective): The root word, meaning not active or in use; avoiding work. Less intense than "bone-idle."
- Lazy (adjective): Disinclined to activity or exertion. The standard, less emphatic term.
Synonyms
- Work-shy: Having a strong aversion to work.
- Indolent: Wanting to avoid activity or exertion; lazy.
- Slothful: Lazily inactive.
Antonyms
- Industrious: Diligent and hard-working.
- Energetic: Showing or involving great activity or vitality.
- Assiduous: Showing great care and perseverance.
Idioms and Related Phrases
- "bone-idle" itself functions as a fixed, idiomatic adjective phrase.
- "Couldn't be bothered": A common phrase expressing a similar sentiment of extreme unwillingness to make an effort.
Adjective
- constitutionally lazy or idle