Basic Details
Word: Idleness
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The state of being inactive or not doing anything.
Synonyms: Inactivity, laziness, unemployment
Antonyms: Activity, diligence, industriousness
Idioms and Phrases
- A rolling stone gathers no moss: This means that a person who is always active or moving does not accumulate responsibilities or wealth. Example: "He travels so often; a rolling stone gathers no moss, but he loves being free."
- All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy: This suggests that without time off from work, a person becomes both bored and boring. Example: "You should take a break once in a while; all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy."
Usage Examples
Example 1: After finishing his homework, he enjoyed a little idleness by playing games with his friends.
Example 2: Too much idleness can lead to boredom and a lack of motivation to do anything productive.
Example 3: Even in idleness, she found peace as she relaxed in the sunshine with a good book.
Fun Fact
The concept of idleness has been around for centuries and is often viewed negatively in many cultures, as hard work and productivity are highly valued. However, in some philosophies, idleness can be seen as a way to recharge and reflect.
Famous Quote
"Idleness is not doing nothing. Idleness is being free to do anything." Floyd Dell
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "idleness" mean?
a) Being very busy
b) The state of being inactive
c) Working hard
d) Completing tasks
Answer: b) The state of being inactive
2. Which of these is a synonym of "idleness"?
a) Activity
b) Laziness
c) Diligence
d) Hard work
Answer: b) Laziness
3. What is the opposite of "idleness"?
a) Inactivity
b) Diligence
c) Laziness
d) Rest
Answer: b) Diligence
4. Which sentence uses "idleness" correctly?
a) His idleness allowed him to complete the project quickly.
b) Idleness can sometimes be beneficial for creative thinking.
c) She felt idleness while running the marathon.
d) He enjoyed idleness during the busy exam period.
Answer: b) Idleness can sometimes be beneficial for creative thinking.
5. Which idiom suggests a negative view of idleness?
a) A rolling stone gathers no moss
b) All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy
c) An apple a day keeps the doctor away
d) Actions speak louder than words
Answer: a) A rolling stone gathers no moss
