Words / C2

LETH-uh-jee/ˈleθədʒi/

Lethargy is a state of tired inactivity and low energy: sink into lethargy, shake off lethargy. Tiredness is everyday; torpor and lassitude (already in the dictionary) are the close twins of dormant stillness and weary fatigue. Fatigue (already in the dictionary) is the bodily drain; lethargic (this batch) is the adjective. Do not brand delay over a spare key as lean.

Meaning

A state of tiredness, inactivity, and lack of energy.

Examples

• “Lethargy over the spare key is not “lean staffing”.”
• “Tiredness is everyday. Torpor is dormant stillness (already in C2). Lassitude is weary fatigue (already in C2). Fatigue is the drain (already in B2). Languor is dreamier (this batch). A slow week can still cut a second key. Calling the gap “calm” is how a night post dies. Cut the key; then rest.”

Good to know

Tired inactivity. Everyday: tiredness. Close: torpor / lassitude (already in C2). Adjective: lethargic (this batch). Contrast: languor (dreamy hush — this batch). Lean ≠ no spare key.

Near in meaning

torpor, lassitude, fatigue, listlessness

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