French Conversation · Level 103
60 words
French word
atonie
Pronunciation
IPA/atoni/
Meaning
- feminine nounlistlessness
Example
Je ressens une certaine atonie ces derniers temps.
I've been feeling a certain listlessness lately.
More examples
Après les vacances, le bureau est en atonie.
After the holidays, the office is listless.
Core concept
The quiet loss of inner tension that makes both physical action and sustained effort feel weak.
Common phrases
ressentir une atonie
feel listlessness
souffrir d'atonie
suffer from listlessness
une atonie psychologique
psychological listlessness
Similar words
fatigue: Temporary exhaustion that makes the body or mind work less effectively until rest restores it.
lassitude: A persistent feeling of weariness that makes action feel difficult.
abattement: A dejected state in which energy and enthusiasm have faded.
découragement: A drop in motivation and spirits when efforts fail or results disappoint.
Definition in French
Terme désignant une diminution notable du tonus ou de l'énergie, souvent employé dans un contexte médical ou formel.
Word origin
The medical term atonie entered French from Greek atonia through learned Latin, with a- meaning 'without' and tonos meaning 'tension'.
Usage tips
- Atonie usually names an ongoing condition or general lack of drive, not a brief episode of ordinary tiredness.