faineant
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: - Disinclined to work or exertion; habitually lazy or idle: Describes a person who avoids effort or work, often due to a habitual preference for inactivity.
Usage
The word "faineant" is a formal and somewhat literary adjective. It is used to characterize a person, especially one in a position where activity is expected, as being inherently and lazily inactive. It implies a blameworthy lack of industry. - It typically precedes a noun (e.g., a faineant ruler) or follows a linking verb like "was" or "seemed." - It carries a strong negative connotation of criticism or contempt.
Examples
- The empire declined under a series of emperors who cared only for pleasure.
- His attitude meant projects were always delayed.
- She was not by nature, but the oppressive heat made her feel so.
- The manager criticized the workers for their lack of productivity.
Advanced Usage
- The term can be used in historical or political contexts to criticize ineffective leadership characterized by laziness, as in "a monarchy."
- It can be applied metaphorically to describe things that are sluggish or inactive, though this is less common (e.g., "the pace of bureaucratic reform").
Variants and Related Words
- Faineance (noun): The quality or state of being faineant; habitual idleness.
- The faineance of the court was notorious.
Synonyms
- Indolent
- Slothful
- Idle
- Lazy
- Work-shy
- Shiftless (implies laziness and lack of resourcefulness)
Antonyms
- Industrious
- Diligent
- Assiduous
- Energetic
- Hardworking
Word Origin
Derived from the French fainéant, from fait (does) + néant (nothing), meaning "does nothing." It entered English in the early 17th century.
Adjective
- disinclined to work or exertion
- faineant kings under whose rule the country languished
- an indolent hanger-on
- too lazy to wash the dishes
- shiftless idle youth
- slothful employees
- the unemployed are not necessarily work-shy