en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

Examining "idly" vs "lazily": nuances in action

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 31/10/2024, 18:48
English.me team member
Idly and lazily. What's the difference?

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?

Internet search results for idly) and lazily

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.
Lazily
  • 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.

Recommended posts in Difference

"Robust" vs. "strong": untangling two mighty words

"Robust" vs. "strong": untangling two mighty words

"Robust" often implies sturdiness and the ability to withstand difficult ... Learn more →

Echoes and vibrations: exploring "reverberate" vs. "resonate"

Echoes and vibrations: exploring "reverberate" vs. "resonate"

"Reverberate" typically refers to the reflection, continuation, or echoing of ... Learn more →

Beyond words: comparing "impressive" and "stunning"

Beyond words: comparing "impressive" and "stunning"

The word "impressive" is generally used to describe something that ... Learn more →

"Unclear" vs. "vague": distinct shades of ambiguity

"Unclear" vs. "vague": distinct shades of ambiguity

"Unclear" often implies confusion or lack of clarity in understanding ... Learn more →