lackadaisical
What does "lackadaisical" mean?
Lackadaisical describes a person who is lacking spirit, enthusiasm, or determination. Imagine someone lounging on a sofa, sighing deeply, and unable to summon the energy to finish even the simplest task; they are moving through life with a lazy, listless, or indifferent attitude. It is often used to criticize someone's work ethic or approach to responsibilities. While it implies laziness, it specifically highlights a lack of focus or care rather than just being busy. It is common to hear it used in professional or academic contexts to describe a "lackadaisical effort" or a "lackadaisical attitude" toward safety or deadlines.
"lackadaisical" in conversation
Work feedback
Your report was quite lackadaisical, Sarah.
Your report was quite lackadaisical, Sarah.
I apologize; I was juggling too many projects at once.
I apologize; I was juggling too many projects at once.
Used here to describe a subpar, unenthusiastic work output.
Planning a trip
We need to book the tickets now, don't be so lackadaisical!
We need to book the tickets now, don't be so lackadaisical!
Relax, the prices aren't going to jump that much.
Relax, the prices aren't going to jump that much.
Used to scold someone for being too relaxed or indifferent about a time-sensitive task.
"lackadaisical" in a sentence
He gave a lackadaisical wave as he walked past.
He gave a lackadaisical wave as he walked past.
The team's lackadaisical defense cost them the championship.
The team's lackadaisical defense cost them the championship.
Despite the looming deadline, the staff remained characteristically lackadaisical in their approach to the project.
Despite the looming deadline, the staff remained characteristically lackadaisical in their approach to the project.
