spiritless

/'spiritlis/

Thân thiện

The student gave a spiritless apology to the teacher.

Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Lacking energy, enthusiasm, or courage; listless or submissive: Describes a person, action, or thing that shows little vitality, vigor, or assertiveness.
   • Devoid of liveliness or spirit; dull: Describes something that is flat, unanimated, or lacking in character.

Usage

• Used to describe a person's demeanor, attitude, or behavior as passive, unenthusiastic, or lacking in force.
• Used to describe actions, performances, or responses that are performed without energy or conviction.
• Often carries a negative connotation, implying a deficiency where spirit or energy is expected.

Examples

• Describing a person or their demeanor:
  • After the long illness, he was pale and spiritless.
  • The team gave a spiritless performance, showing no passion for the game.
• Describing an action or response:
  • She offered only a spiritless apology, which did not seem sincere.
  • The debate was spiritless, with neither candidate willing to challenge the other.

Advanced Usage

• "Spiritless" can be used in formal or literary contexts to critique a lack of moral courage or intellectual vigor.
  • The author's spiritless defense of his own thesis disappointed his supporters.
• It can describe environments or atmospheres that feel lifeless.
  • The party was a spiritless affair, with guests standing around in silence.

Variants and Related Words

• Spiritlessly (adverb): In a manner lacking spirit or energy.
  • He nodded spiritlessly in agreement.
• Spiritlessness (noun): The state or quality of being spiritless.
  • The spiritlessness of the crowd was palpable.

Synonyms

• Apathetic: Showing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
• Listless: Lacking energy or enthusiasm.
• Lackluster: Lacking in vitality, force, or conviction; uninspired.
• Meek: Quiet, gentle, and easily imposed on; submissive.
• Lethargic: Affected by lethargy; sluggish and apathetic.

Antonyms

• Spirited: Full of energy, enthusiasm, and determination.
• Vigorous: Strong, healthy, and full of energy.
• Animated: Full of life or excitement; lively.
• Ardent: Enthusiastic or passionate.
• Dynamic: Positive in attitude and full of energy and new ideas.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "To go through the motions": To do something without enthusiasm or sincere feeling, often mechanically. This concept is closely related to performing a task in a spiritless manner.
  • He wasn't invested in the project; he was just going through the motions.

Học thuật

Adjective

1. evidencing little spirit or courage; overly submissive or compliant
   • compliant and anxious to suit his opinions of those of others
   • a fine fiery blast against meek conformity- Orville Prescott
   • she looked meek but had the heart of a lion
   • was submissive and subservient
2. lacking ardor or vigor or energy
   • a spiritless reply to criticism

Từ đồng nghĩa

• meek