What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
idled
Example
He idled away the afternoon watching TV. [idled: verb]
Example
The car idled at the traffic light. [idled: past tense]
lazed
Example
She lazed on the beach all day, reading a book. [lazed: verb]
Example
We spent the weekend lazing around the house. [lazing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Idled is more commonly used than lazed in everyday language, especially when referring to machines or engines. Lazed is less common and is typically used to describe a person taking a break or relaxing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between idled and lazed?
Both idled and lazed are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts. However, idled may be used in technical or mechanical contexts, while lazed is more commonly used in casual conversation or writing.
