Synonyms for

Slack

Adjective / slæk / Another word for slack — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

not taut or held tightly in position; loose

Synonyms & similar words

mire lax abate slake quag morass loose slackness falloff relax slump quagmire slow slacken loose limp flabby droopy baggy saggy loosened relaxed lax sluggish inactive idle dull negligent careless lackadaisical unmotivated unconcerned indifferent apathetic

Synonyms by register

Formal

lax loose negligent remiss

Informal

lazy idle laggard shoddy

Literary

languid listless desultory

Antonyms

taut tight tense stretched rigid firm

Common collocations

  • slack season
  • slack tide
  • slack off
  • slack period
  • slack water
  • slack jawed
  • slack rope

Word family

noun slackness
verb slack
adjective slack
adverb slackly

Usage note

As an adjective, 'slack' often implies a lack of tension or effort, which can be negative (negligent) or neutral (loose rope). As a verb, 'slack off' means to reduce effort or work.

Compare "slack" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. The rope was slack, making it difficult to climb.
  2. He was reprimanded for his slack work ethic.
  3. The slack in the line caused the fish to get away.
  4. The team's slack defense allowed the opposing team to score.
  5. She wore a slack dress to the party.

Quotes

  • “The difference between a strong man and a weak one is that the former does not give up after a defeat.” - Woodrow Wilson
  • “Do not be afraid of defeat. You are never so near to victory as when defeated in a good cause.” - Henry Ward Beecher
  • “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” - Nelson Mandela

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