ennui
Noun
Hard difficulty
What does “ennui” mean?
noun.a feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement.
SAT Usage
this term typically appears in passages discussing themes of existentialism, boredom, or the human condition. It emphasizes a deeper sense of emotional fatigue and disconnection from life's activities, distinguishing it from mere boredom by conveying a profound dissatisfaction with one's circumstances.
Common Confusions
Ennui implies a deep sense of emotional fatigue and dissatisfaction with life, while boredom usually suggests a more superficial lack of interest in activities.
Do not choose ennui if the context emphasizes excitement or engagement rather than a feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction arising from a lack of occupation or excitement.
Example Sentences
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A life of complete luxury left him plagued by ennui.
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The ennui she felt was overwhelming.