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Examining "idly" vs "lazily": nuances in action
Lloyd Cooper 31/10/2024, 18:48English.me team member
What is similar?
Both words describe actions done with little effort, enthusiasm, or purpose.
What is different?
Idly refers to doing something without a specific purpose or aim, often implying inactivity or inaction. Lazily implies doing something in a relaxed manner with minimal effort, often connected to avoiding work or exertion.
Which one is more common?
Examples of usage
Idly- He stared idly out the window, watching the world go by.
- She idly flipped through the magazine, not really interested in any of the articles.
- The car idled at the red light, engine humming softly.
- The cat stretched lazily in the warm sunlight.
- He lazily dragged himself out of bed, not wanting to start the day.
- They lazily paddled their canoe down the calm river.
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