staid
/steid/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Characterized by dignity and propriety: Describes a person, manner, or appearance that is serious, respectable, and not given to frivolity or sudden change.
- Sedate and unadventurous: Suggests a settled, sober, and conventional character, often implying a lack of excitement or liveliness.
Usage
The adjective "staid" is used to describe people, their behavior, attitudes, or environments that are very serious, steady, and traditional. It often carries a neutral or slightly negative connotation of being overly formal or boring. It is a formal word.
Examples
- The company's staid image made it difficult to attract younger talent.
- Her staid demeanor at the party contrasted sharply with her wild reputation.
- The lecture was delivered in a staid and monotonous tone.
- He lived a staid life, following the same routine for decades.
Advanced Usage
- "The staid conventions of society": Refers to the fixed, respectable, and often restrictive traditional rules of a community.
- "A staid and predictable performance": Describes a performance that is competent but lacks energy, innovation, or passion.
Variants and Related Words
- Staidly (adverb): In a staid manner.
- The committee members nodded staidly in agreement.
- Staidness (noun): The quality of being staid.
- The staidness of the institution was both its strength and its weakness.
Synonyms
- Sedate: Calm, dignified, and composed.
- Sober: Serious, sensible, and solemn.
- Demure: Reserved, modest, and shy.
- Prim: Formally precise or proper, often to an excessive degree.
- Unadventurous: Not inclined to take risks or try new things.
Antonyms
- Frivolous: Not having any serious purpose or value.
- Unconventional: Not based on or conforming to what is generally done or believed.
- Lively: Full of life and energy; active and outgoing.
- Boisterous: Noisy, energetic, and cheerful; rowdy.
Idioms and Phrases
(Note: "Staid" itself is not commonly used in specific idioms. Its meaning is typically expressed directly.) - "A staid existence": A phrase describing a life that is very routine, respectable, and lacking in excitement.
Adjective
- characterized by dignity and propriety