Desultory
hardDES-ul-tor-ee
adjective
Definition
Lacking a plan, purpose, or enthusiasm
Examples
“The conversation was desultory, jumping from topic to topic.”
“His desultory approach to studying resulted in poor grades.”
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Desultory is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "aimless" or "haphazard" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "methodical".
Related GRE Words
arbitrary
Based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system
haphazard
Lacking any obvious principle of organization; random
slapdash
Done too hurriedly and carelessly
ubiquitous
Present, appearing, or found everywhere
aberrant
Deviating from what is normal or expected
abscond
To leave secretly and hide, especially to avoid arrest or prosecution
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