Accurately comprehending the exact definitions of terms is crucial in academic writing to ensure clear communication of concepts and to facilitate precise and effective discourse among scholars. In scholarly contexts, where technical meanings are prevalent, a poor comprehension of a term’s true meaning can lead to confusion. This article thoroughly examines the etymology, definition, and proper usage of “lethargic.”
Definition of “lethargic”
The adjective “lethargic” describes a state characterized by sluggishness, drowsiness, and an overall lack of energy and alertness. It is often associated with a diminished physical or mental activity level. It involves more than just feeling temporarily tired or sleepy; it suggests a pervasive and persistent state of fatigue that significantly impacts daily functioning.
Use of “lethargic” in a sentence
The adjective “lethargic” (or “torpor” in medical jargon) describes a state of sluggishness, lack of energy, or a general sense of tiredness. It’s derived from the noun “lethargy” which similarly describes a state of drowsiness due to various causes, including health conditions, medication side effects, poor sleeping habits, or psychological circumstances such as depression or stress.
Examples
- After the long flight, she felt too lethargic to join her friends for dinner.
- The hot and humid weather made everyone feel lethargic and unmotivated to work.
- He noticed his cat becoming more lethargic, prompting a visit to the veterinarian.
How to spell “lethargic” correctly
The term “lethargic” originated first, derived from the Latin word “lethargia,” which itself came from the Greek “lēthargos,” meaning “forgetful.” This word is derived from “lēthē,” meaning “forgetfulness,” and “argos,” meaning “inactive.” These components underscore the characteristic sluggishness and lack of energy associated with lethargy. From there, it evolved the modern English “lethargic,” maintaining its meaning of being drowsy, sluggish, or indolent.
Correct spelling
lethargic
Wrong spelling
lathargic
Synonyms for “lethargic”
If you feel unsure about the correct spelling of the word “lethargic” in sentences, it may be helpful to use synonyms for it. This will help you understand it better and use the word correctly. Simultaneously, you can avoid repetition and redundancy in your academic work. The table below provides alternative words for “lethargic” and various examples of how to use them properly in sentences.
| Synonyms | Examples |
| Drowsy | After a long meeting, she felt lethargic and couldn't concentrate. |
| After a long meeting, she felt drowsy and couldn't concentrate. | |
| Sluggish | The team felt lethargic on Monday morning, moving slowly through their tasks. |
| The team felt sluggish on Monday morning, moving slowly through their tasks. | |
| Indolent | He was lethargic during the summer break, spending most days on the couch. |
| He was indolent during the summer break, spending most days on the couch. |
FAQs
When a person is described as lethargic, it means they are exhibiting a state of sluggishness and a marked lack of energy. Lethargy is a profound inactivity and an indifference to activity, which can be a symptom of various medical conditions or a side effect of medications.
Another medical term for lethargic is “torpor.” Torpor also describes a state of decreased physiological activity, typically characterized by reduced metabolism, lower body temperature, and slowed reactions. It’s often used to describe both animal behaviour and a medically significant human condition.
Lethargy involves a deep level of energy depletion that affects a person’s ability to perform even basic tasks. Fatigue is a feeling of tiredness or exhaustion that typically results from exertion or lack of sleep. It doesn’t necessarily include the diminished responsiveness seen with lethargy.
Synonyms for lethargic can be drowsy, sluggish, indolent, and torpid.
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