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desultory

Adjective

IPA /ˈdesəltri/

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Meaning in plain English

Lacking a clear plan or much enthusiasm, often moving between unrelated things.

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Pronunciation

desultory/ˈdesəltri/

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Conversation jumps between topics
Little focus or enthusiasm

A desultory discussion wanders without a clear plan or much energy.

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We made a desultory attempt to tidy the shed.
After a desultory discussion, the group left without making a decision.

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We made a ________ attempt to tidy the shed.

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desultory — Lacking a clear plan or much enthusiasm, often moving between unrelated things.

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Lacking a clear plan or much enthusiasm, often moving between unrelated things.

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Word origin

From Latin desultorius, related to a word for a person who jumps from one horse to another.

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Desultory conversation, discussion and attempts suggest an absence of focus or energy.

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