Definition

Adjective: * Lacking motivation, drive, or enthusiasm: Describes a person who does not have a strong reason or desire to do something. * Not caused or justified by a reason: Describes an action, decision, or feeling that appears to have no clear or logical cause.

Usage

The word "unmotivated" is used to describe a state of lacking internal drive or a clear external reason. It often carries a negative connotation when referring to people, suggesting apathy or laziness. When referring to actions, it suggests they are arbitrary or inexplicable.

Examples

• Describing a person:
  • The student became unmotivated after receiving several poor grades.
  • A manager's job is to inspire unmotivated employees.
• Describing an action or feeling:
  • Her sudden departure seemed completely unmotivated.
  • He felt an unmotivated sense of anxiety.

Advanced Usage

• "to be unmotivated to do something": This is a common structure to specify the lack of motivation for a particular task.
  • She was unmotivated to start the long and tedious report.

Variants and Related Words

• Unmotived (adj): A less common variant with the same meaning as "unmotivated."
• Motivated (adj): The direct antonym, meaning having motivation.
• Motivation (n): The reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way.

Synonyms

• Apathetic: Showing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
• Indifferent: Having no particular interest or sympathy; unconcerned.
• Listless: Lacking energy or enthusiasm.
• Unenthusiastic: Not having or showing enthusiasm.
• Arbitrary: Based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system (for actions/decisions).

Antonyms

• Motivated
• Driven
• Enthusiastic
• Keen
• Determined

Adjective

1. without motivation