What's the difference between ennui and boredom?

When would you use ennui instead of boredom?

How do I use ennui in a sentence?

Can ennui describe a situation as well as a feeling?

Is ennui a common word?

Is ennui common in everyday English?

← Dictionary

ennui

/ˈɑːnwi/

IELTSAcademic

noun

A feeling of listlessness and dissatisfaction because nothing is exciting.

He felt deep ennui after the vacation ended.
Long shifts bring a quiet ennui.

Adinary Nuance

Near-neighbors: ennui is stronger than boredom and more formal, suggesting a deep, lingering dissatisfaction rather than simple tiredness. It differs from listlessness by focusing on emptiness and dissatisfaction, not just low energy. Choose ennui when you need a precise, slightly literary term for this emotional state.

In other languages

Spanish: Aburrimiento profundo
Japanese: 退屈な不満
Korean: 심심하고 답답한 기분
Vietnamese: Sự buồn chán sâu sắc
Chinese: 深深的倦怠

Etymology

Not selected for this lens.

Common phrases

a sense of ennuiovercome with ennuitry to hide her ennui

Synonyms

boredom listlessness apathy discontent melancholy

Frequently asked questions

Is ennui formal or informal?: Is ennui formal or informal?
What's the difference between ennui and boredom?: When would you use ennui instead of boredom?
How do I use ennui in a sentence?: Can ennui describe a situation as well as a feeling?
Is ennui a common word?: Is ennui common in everyday English?