What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
idle
Example
He was idle all day and didn't get any work done. [idle: adjective]
Example
The car's engine was left idle for too long and now won't start. [idle: verb]
Example
I can't seem to concentrate today, my mind is feeling idle. [idle: adjective]
inactive
Example
She has been inactive in the club for months and hasn't attended any meetings. [inactive: adjective]
Example
The computer has been inactive for too long and now the screen has gone black. [inactive: adjective]
Example
The volcano has been inactive for centuries and is now considered dormant. [inactive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Idle is more commonly used than inactive in everyday language, especially when describing people or machines. However, inactive is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between idle and inactive?
Both idle and inactive are relatively formal words, but inactive may be slightly more formal due to its technical usage in certain fields.
