ennui - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
ennui Word Meanings
- a feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement
- boredom
- a state of weariness or dissatisfaction
ennui Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
ennui Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɒnˈwiː/
US
/ɑːnˈwiː/
ennui Word Etymology
ennui = 'ennuyer' (to bore) + '-ui' (suffix indicating state). Origin: Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a person sitting on a park bench, sighing heavily in boredom, with nothing to engage in.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Ennui describes a deep, lingering feeling of weariness and dissatisfaction that extends beyond simple boredom. It often arises when someone lacks meaningful occupation, purpose, or excitement for an extended period, leaving energy and curiosity drained. In English, ennui carries a slightly literary tone, sometimes pointing to a refined or affective mood rather than a sudden irritant. People might mention ennui when describing long, uneventful days, existential reflections, or a malaise that risks resisting quick fixes. It can coexist with irony or dryness, and it's frequently associated with artsy, cosmopolitan contexts or melancholy introspection rather than ordinary, momentary boredom.
Usage Reminders
- Use ennui for deep, long-lasting mood rather than quick moments of boredom
- Reserve it for descriptions of existential weariness or sophisticated settings
- Pair with adjectives like existential, refined, or cosmopolitan to convey tone
- Avoid using in casual conversations to prevent sounding pretentious
- Include in writing about art, philosophy, or urban life to reflect atmosphere
Common Misconceptions
- Ennui is just mild boredom.
- Ennui means laziness or laziness alone.
- Ennui is only used in literature and never in everyday speech.
- Ennui and boredom are interchangeable in most contexts.
- Ennui happens only to adults.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, ennui tends to sound more literary and elevated than everyday boredom, so learners should watch for tone and appropriate contexts.
Learning Tips
- Read literary descriptions to hear ennui in context
- Compare ennui with boring and bored to feel the subtle difference
- Practice pairing ennui with existential, melancholic, or cosmopolitan
- Use in descriptive, narrative writing to convey mood
- Note how speakers convey tone with adjectives and pace
- Avoid overusing; reserve for mood-heavy scenes
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'ennui'?
A.A feeling of excitement
B.A sense of accomplishment
C.A surge of energy
D.A state of boredom
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'ennui' used correctly?
A.The adventure brought a sense of ennui to the group.
B.His enthusiasm for the project extinguished the ennui in the team.
C.After hours of waiting, she was filled with ennui.
D.She felt ennui after completing a challenging task.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'ennui'?
A.Pleasure
B.Contentment
C.Excitement
D.Satisfaction
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life situation might someone experience 'ennui'?
A.While on a thrilling roller coaster ride
B.Attending a long and monotonous lecture
C.During a peaceful meditation session
D.Exploring a new and exciting city
Step 5: Mastery
How would you describe the feeling of 'ennui' to a friend?
A.A state of boredom
B.A surge of energy
C.A sense of accomplishment
D.A feeling of excitement
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