Shiftless

usgb/ˈʃɪftləs/
adjective

Someone who is lazy and lacks ambition or drive.

He was perceived as a shiftless person because he never took any initiative to improve his life.
Visual representation of "shiftless" - Someone who is lazy and lacks ambition or drive.

Often appears as...

  • shiftless individual
  • shiftless behavior

Usage tips

Disapproving

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "shiftless"
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Negative Connotation

Considered offensive to call someone directly, often seen as a strong insult.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
It would be rude to publicly describe him as shiftless.
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Informal Description

Used informally, usually among friends or in a casual setting.

Illustration for Informal Description
My brother's a bit shiftless these days, always playing games.
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Subtle Warning

Can subtly imply someone has potential but isn't using it.

Illustration for Subtle Warning
She's smart but rather shiftless; she could do more if she tried.
Visual representation of the word "Shiftless"

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