Make Your Point > Archived Issues > ENNUI
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If you're bored by life and all it offers, you suffer from ennui. Ennui is closely related to the word annoy; it sounds French and absolutely is, but it ultimately came from a Latin phrase, in odio, which means "it is hateful to me." So, if the world seems hateful because it annoys you with its tedium, you've got ennui. I hope you soon regain your joie de vivre!
"ENNUI" Ennui is a feeling of sad, dull boredom that you get when life itself seems boring or pointless. Ennui usually lasts for a long time: it's not something you feel for just a moment or just a day. Part of speech: Other forms:
Fiona Apple albums aren't exactly bubblegum pop; they're often a mixture of rage and ennui. In the lyrics to "Paper Bag," she mistakes some litter for a soaring bird, then lets out "a weary tear."
Look away from the screen to explain the definition in your own words. You’ll know you understand what "ennui" means when you can explain it without saying "spiritlessness" or "a case of the blahs."
Fill in the blanks: "Everyone in (a particular story, place, or situation) is afflicted by (a certain type of) ennui."
Spend at least 20 seconds occupying your mind with the game below. Then try the review questions. Don’t go straight to the review now—let your working memory empty out first.
1. One opposite of ENNUI is
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