What is the opposite of 'gravitas'?
I'm having difficulty coming up with a valid antonym for gravitas.
Online searches return results like superficiality, cheerfulness, frivolity, facetiousness etc. which don't work for me. They seem to be opposites of gravitas as it is understood by the person who has it.
As in, "We need to undertake this project with gravitas", "he carried himself with gravitas".
This is taken to mean seriousness.
There's another sense of the word, as the quality of a person having gravitas. In this case, the things they say and do are given significance because of
gravitas.
What if what someone has to say is automatically disregarded because of... the opposite of gravitas.
What would that word be?
antonyms
|
show 4 more comments
I'm having difficulty coming up with a valid antonym for gravitas.
Online searches return results like superficiality, cheerfulness, frivolity, facetiousness etc. which don't work for me. They seem to be opposites of gravitas as it is understood by the person who has it.
As in, "We need to undertake this project with gravitas", "he carried himself with gravitas".
This is taken to mean seriousness.
There's another sense of the word, as the quality of a person having gravitas. In this case, the things they say and do are given significance because of
gravitas.
What if what someone has to say is automatically disregarded because of... the opposite of gravitas.
What would that word be?
antonyms
44
I wish the answer was "anti-gravitas"...
– Pam
yesterday
It might be helpful to provide example sentences where your particular sense is used. As I read your question, the example sentences you show are of a sense you don't want. -- I'm also unclear on the distinction in senses you seem to be making. You might want to clarify that, and example sentences of each (clearly labeled) can help.
– R.M.
23 hours ago
2
@Lambie I'd say 'gravitas' is a fairly old-fashioned word.
– AJFaraday
22 hours ago
2
"flibbertigibbetosity"
– Greg Lee
22 hours ago
2
Maybe it’s flibbertigibbetas
– Jim
20 hours ago
|
show 4 more comments
I'm having difficulty coming up with a valid antonym for gravitas.
Online searches return results like superficiality, cheerfulness, frivolity, facetiousness etc. which don't work for me. They seem to be opposites of gravitas as it is understood by the person who has it.
As in, "We need to undertake this project with gravitas", "he carried himself with gravitas".
This is taken to mean seriousness.
There's another sense of the word, as the quality of a person having gravitas. In this case, the things they say and do are given significance because of
gravitas.
What if what someone has to say is automatically disregarded because of... the opposite of gravitas.
What would that word be?
antonyms
I'm having difficulty coming up with a valid antonym for gravitas.
Online searches return results like superficiality, cheerfulness, frivolity, facetiousness etc. which don't work for me. They seem to be opposites of gravitas as it is understood by the person who has it.
As in, "We need to undertake this project with gravitas", "he carried himself with gravitas".
This is taken to mean seriousness.
There's another sense of the word, as the quality of a person having gravitas. In this case, the things they say and do are given significance because of
gravitas.
What if what someone has to say is automatically disregarded because of... the opposite of gravitas.
What would that word be?
antonyms
antonyms
edited 20 hours ago
Matt E. Эллен♦
25.4k1488153
25.4k1488153
asked yesterday
AJFaradayAJFaraday
1,000917
1,000917
44
I wish the answer was "anti-gravitas"...
– Pam
yesterday
It might be helpful to provide example sentences where your particular sense is used. As I read your question, the example sentences you show are of a sense you don't want. -- I'm also unclear on the distinction in senses you seem to be making. You might want to clarify that, and example sentences of each (clearly labeled) can help.
– R.M.
23 hours ago
2
@Lambie I'd say 'gravitas' is a fairly old-fashioned word.
– AJFaraday
22 hours ago
2
"flibbertigibbetosity"
– Greg Lee
22 hours ago
2
Maybe it’s flibbertigibbetas
– Jim
20 hours ago
|
show 4 more comments
44
I wish the answer was "anti-gravitas"...
– Pam
yesterday
It might be helpful to provide example sentences where your particular sense is used. As I read your question, the example sentences you show are of a sense you don't want. -- I'm also unclear on the distinction in senses you seem to be making. You might want to clarify that, and example sentences of each (clearly labeled) can help.
– R.M.
23 hours ago
2
@Lambie I'd say 'gravitas' is a fairly old-fashioned word.
– AJFaraday
22 hours ago
2
"flibbertigibbetosity"
– Greg Lee
22 hours ago
2
Maybe it’s flibbertigibbetas
– Jim
20 hours ago
44
44
I wish the answer was "anti-gravitas"...
– Pam
yesterday
I wish the answer was "anti-gravitas"...
– Pam
yesterday
It might be helpful to provide example sentences where your particular sense is used. As I read your question, the example sentences you show are of a sense you don't want. -- I'm also unclear on the distinction in senses you seem to be making. You might want to clarify that, and example sentences of each (clearly labeled) can help.
– R.M.
23 hours ago
It might be helpful to provide example sentences where your particular sense is used. As I read your question, the example sentences you show are of a sense you don't want. -- I'm also unclear on the distinction in senses you seem to be making. You might want to clarify that, and example sentences of each (clearly labeled) can help.
– R.M.
23 hours ago
2
2
@Lambie I'd say 'gravitas' is a fairly old-fashioned word.
– AJFaraday
22 hours ago
@Lambie I'd say 'gravitas' is a fairly old-fashioned word.
– AJFaraday
22 hours ago
2
2
"flibbertigibbetosity"
– Greg Lee
22 hours ago
"flibbertigibbetosity"
– Greg Lee
22 hours ago
2
2
Maybe it’s flibbertigibbetas
– Jim
20 hours ago
Maybe it’s flibbertigibbetas
– Jim
20 hours ago
|
show 4 more comments
15 Answers
15
active
oldest
votes
You could try LEVITY
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levity
Levity may refer to
a sense of amusement, the opposite of gravitas
43
Weird quirk: Latin does have the word levitas, which would be a direct contrast to gravitas. However, because the Latin form is part of what gives gravitas its gravitas, it would feel odd or quirky to use levitas in the same way. Hence levity (comp. gravity) is a great choice.
– TaliesinMerlin
yesterday
4
@TaliesinMerlin That's a beautiful irony. I wonder whether there's a word for this situation!
– Lightness Races in Orbit
21 hours ago
13
@TaliesinMerlin If "levity" has too much gravitas, one could substitute "levi-OHHHH-sa" and wave a little stick.
– David Richerby
20 hours ago
What is the word for someone who with levity and frivolity is deadly serious?
– Sentinel
13 hours ago
add a comment |
There is nothing wrong with Frivolity as you pointed out. It actually means lack of seriousness. The word Frivolity, from Latin frivolus. It is synonym to levity. It is directly opposite to word serious.
Frivolity (noun): the quality or state of being frivolous.
Merriam-Webster defines frivolous (adj.) as,
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frivolous
2.a: lacking in seriousness
His frequent frivolous behavior in the meeting is a big concern.
1
Frivolity doesn't usually refer to the way someone carries themself, which is a typical use of gravitas.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
@sondra.kinsey unfortunately, we can't say frivolitas or levitas.
– Ubi hatt
13 hours ago
add a comment |
I generally agree that levity is a pretty direct antonym of gravitas, but "he carried himself with levity" doesn't sound right. So I'll suggest
insouciance
n. Blithe lack of concern; nonchalance.
New contributor
I guess I think of "insouciance" as a positive - an attractive characteristic, rather than in inappropriate light-mindedness.
– user888379
22 hours ago
add a comment |
Flippancy, perhaps?
Flippant - Displaying unbecoming levity in the consideration of serious subjects or in behaviour to persons entitled to respect. (OED)
add a comment |
What about apathy:
absence or suppression of passion, emotion, or excitement.
lack of interest in or concern for things that others find moving or exciting.
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/apathy
New contributor
1
The Stoic tradition believed strongly in both gravitas and apatheia. While modern apathy has different connotations, I still see gravitas as having a cool relaxed indifference that bears some resemblence to apathy.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
add a comment |
Another option: nonchalance
the state or quality of being nonchalant; cool indifference or lack of concern; casualness.
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nonchalance
Nonchalance is still an attitude, as opposed to a quality. I couldn't imagine saying "Nobody will listen to me, I've just got too much nonchalance".
– AJFaraday
23 hours ago
2
Probably not, but I could imagine it as an adjective “Why won’t anyone take me seriously?” “Well, you are kind of nonchalant when you present.”
– Damila
23 hours ago
add a comment |
Perhaps 'foppery'? aka: foolish character or action
"The entire exercise was laden with foppery, and as a result lacked any sense of gravitas."
Depending on the actual sentence structure, it could be 'foppish'.
"Nobody will listen to me, I'm far too foppish."
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foppery
That's over the moon here,isn't it? :)
– Lambie
22 hours ago
Seriously check this word in urbandictionary.com before you use it about a co-worker!
– CCTO
21 hours ago
@CCTO I couldn't find an entry for 'foppery' in urban dictionary, and similar entries for words starting with 'fop' don't seem widely used. 'foppish' does have an entry meaning basically 'effeminate'
– Daniel
24 mins ago
add a comment |
How about vacuity, silliness, or buffoonery?
foolishness, senselessness
– Daniel
32 mins ago
insincerity, flakiness, fishiness
– Daniel
28 mins ago
add a comment |
This is taken to mean seriousness.
[...]
There's another sense of the word, as the quality of a person having gravitas. In this case, the things they say and do are given significance because of gravitas.
The specific use of "gravitas", this sense of possessing gravitas lending weight or importance to a person leads me to believe you may be extending the meaning of the phrase "air of gravitas" to "gravitas" itself. I therefore believe you are looking for
insignificance, the quality or state of being insignificant, which is itself defined as
not significant: such as
a : lacking meaning or import
b : small in size, quantity, or number
c : not worth considering : unimportant
d : lacking weight, position, or influence : contemptible
(Merriam-Webster)
To put it in context from your question:
What if what someone has to say is automatically disregarded because
of their insignificance?
New contributor
add a comment |
Consider: mercuriality.
mercuriality
- the state or quality of having a lively, fickle, volatile, or erratic attitude or character.
- an instance of such behavior. — mercurial, adj.
The Free Dictionary.
1
I don't think that fits. While a mercurial temperament is lacking in gravitas, it isn't a polar opposite -- "gravitas" doesn't imply a decisive, slow-moving, or predictable nature, nor does "mercurial" imply frivolity.
– duskwuff
19 hours ago
add a comment |
I don't think this can be answered with only one word, honestly.
The media uses gravitas to describe politicians who have a lot of respect or political sway with other politicians even. I wouldn't use any of the words listed above to describe a human being who had the opposite of gravitas. I would call him/her feckless, when the object is a human. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feckless
If the object is an object, I agree with frivolous or the other antonyms listed here.
New contributor
add a comment |
I would suggest Trumpishness. Maybe not common use yet, but it will be. Someone recently said "out-Nixoned Nixon". Everybody knew what that meant.
New contributor
add a comment |
Carelessness
[kair-lis]
adjective
1) not paying enough attention to what one does
2) not exact, accurate, or thorough:
careless work.
2) done or said heedlessly or negligently; unconsidered:
4) not caring or troubling; having no care or concern; unconcerned (usually followed by of, about, or in)
5) possessed or caused without effort or art; unstudied
6) Archaic . free from anxiety.
Source: Dictionary.com
add a comment |
Triviality
The ODO definition of 'triviality' states:
Lack of seriousness or importance; insignificance.
Here are ODO examples of usage:
‘the mediocrity and triviality of current popular culture’
‘the relentlessness of his triviality is grating’
So in your examples, we might have:
We need to undertake this project without triviality,
He carried himself in a trivial fashion.
What you are getting at is, I think, a kind of weightlessness, and 'ungroundedness' in a person or project, which leads to a desire to avoid or disregard them.
add a comment |
A favorite phrase I have seen used to describe people with the opposite of gravitas is to call them, basically a non-entity.
I think the description best suited to your needs is Mundane meaning supremely ordinary.
New contributor
add a comment |
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15 Answers
15
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15 Answers
15
active
oldest
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active
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active
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You could try LEVITY
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levity
Levity may refer to
a sense of amusement, the opposite of gravitas
43
Weird quirk: Latin does have the word levitas, which would be a direct contrast to gravitas. However, because the Latin form is part of what gives gravitas its gravitas, it would feel odd or quirky to use levitas in the same way. Hence levity (comp. gravity) is a great choice.
– TaliesinMerlin
yesterday
4
@TaliesinMerlin That's a beautiful irony. I wonder whether there's a word for this situation!
– Lightness Races in Orbit
21 hours ago
13
@TaliesinMerlin If "levity" has too much gravitas, one could substitute "levi-OHHHH-sa" and wave a little stick.
– David Richerby
20 hours ago
What is the word for someone who with levity and frivolity is deadly serious?
– Sentinel
13 hours ago
add a comment |
You could try LEVITY
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levity
Levity may refer to
a sense of amusement, the opposite of gravitas
43
Weird quirk: Latin does have the word levitas, which would be a direct contrast to gravitas. However, because the Latin form is part of what gives gravitas its gravitas, it would feel odd or quirky to use levitas in the same way. Hence levity (comp. gravity) is a great choice.
– TaliesinMerlin
yesterday
4
@TaliesinMerlin That's a beautiful irony. I wonder whether there's a word for this situation!
– Lightness Races in Orbit
21 hours ago
13
@TaliesinMerlin If "levity" has too much gravitas, one could substitute "levi-OHHHH-sa" and wave a little stick.
– David Richerby
20 hours ago
What is the word for someone who with levity and frivolity is deadly serious?
– Sentinel
13 hours ago
add a comment |
You could try LEVITY
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levity
Levity may refer to
a sense of amusement, the opposite of gravitas
You could try LEVITY
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Levity
Levity may refer to
a sense of amusement, the opposite of gravitas
answered yesterday
Lord PeterLord Peter
51135
51135
43
Weird quirk: Latin does have the word levitas, which would be a direct contrast to gravitas. However, because the Latin form is part of what gives gravitas its gravitas, it would feel odd or quirky to use levitas in the same way. Hence levity (comp. gravity) is a great choice.
– TaliesinMerlin
yesterday
4
@TaliesinMerlin That's a beautiful irony. I wonder whether there's a word for this situation!
– Lightness Races in Orbit
21 hours ago
13
@TaliesinMerlin If "levity" has too much gravitas, one could substitute "levi-OHHHH-sa" and wave a little stick.
– David Richerby
20 hours ago
What is the word for someone who with levity and frivolity is deadly serious?
– Sentinel
13 hours ago
add a comment |
43
Weird quirk: Latin does have the word levitas, which would be a direct contrast to gravitas. However, because the Latin form is part of what gives gravitas its gravitas, it would feel odd or quirky to use levitas in the same way. Hence levity (comp. gravity) is a great choice.
– TaliesinMerlin
yesterday
4
@TaliesinMerlin That's a beautiful irony. I wonder whether there's a word for this situation!
– Lightness Races in Orbit
21 hours ago
13
@TaliesinMerlin If "levity" has too much gravitas, one could substitute "levi-OHHHH-sa" and wave a little stick.
– David Richerby
20 hours ago
What is the word for someone who with levity and frivolity is deadly serious?
– Sentinel
13 hours ago
43
43
Weird quirk: Latin does have the word levitas, which would be a direct contrast to gravitas. However, because the Latin form is part of what gives gravitas its gravitas, it would feel odd or quirky to use levitas in the same way. Hence levity (comp. gravity) is a great choice.
– TaliesinMerlin
yesterday
Weird quirk: Latin does have the word levitas, which would be a direct contrast to gravitas. However, because the Latin form is part of what gives gravitas its gravitas, it would feel odd or quirky to use levitas in the same way. Hence levity (comp. gravity) is a great choice.
– TaliesinMerlin
yesterday
4
4
@TaliesinMerlin That's a beautiful irony. I wonder whether there's a word for this situation!
– Lightness Races in Orbit
21 hours ago
@TaliesinMerlin That's a beautiful irony. I wonder whether there's a word for this situation!
– Lightness Races in Orbit
21 hours ago
13
13
@TaliesinMerlin If "levity" has too much gravitas, one could substitute "levi-OHHHH-sa" and wave a little stick.
– David Richerby
20 hours ago
@TaliesinMerlin If "levity" has too much gravitas, one could substitute "levi-OHHHH-sa" and wave a little stick.
– David Richerby
20 hours ago
What is the word for someone who with levity and frivolity is deadly serious?
– Sentinel
13 hours ago
What is the word for someone who with levity and frivolity is deadly serious?
– Sentinel
13 hours ago
add a comment |
There is nothing wrong with Frivolity as you pointed out. It actually means lack of seriousness. The word Frivolity, from Latin frivolus. It is synonym to levity. It is directly opposite to word serious.
Frivolity (noun): the quality or state of being frivolous.
Merriam-Webster defines frivolous (adj.) as,
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frivolous
2.a: lacking in seriousness
His frequent frivolous behavior in the meeting is a big concern.
1
Frivolity doesn't usually refer to the way someone carries themself, which is a typical use of gravitas.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
@sondra.kinsey unfortunately, we can't say frivolitas or levitas.
– Ubi hatt
13 hours ago
add a comment |
There is nothing wrong with Frivolity as you pointed out. It actually means lack of seriousness. The word Frivolity, from Latin frivolus. It is synonym to levity. It is directly opposite to word serious.
Frivolity (noun): the quality or state of being frivolous.
Merriam-Webster defines frivolous (adj.) as,
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frivolous
2.a: lacking in seriousness
His frequent frivolous behavior in the meeting is a big concern.
1
Frivolity doesn't usually refer to the way someone carries themself, which is a typical use of gravitas.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
@sondra.kinsey unfortunately, we can't say frivolitas or levitas.
– Ubi hatt
13 hours ago
add a comment |
There is nothing wrong with Frivolity as you pointed out. It actually means lack of seriousness. The word Frivolity, from Latin frivolus. It is synonym to levity. It is directly opposite to word serious.
Frivolity (noun): the quality or state of being frivolous.
Merriam-Webster defines frivolous (adj.) as,
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frivolous
2.a: lacking in seriousness
His frequent frivolous behavior in the meeting is a big concern.
There is nothing wrong with Frivolity as you pointed out. It actually means lack of seriousness. The word Frivolity, from Latin frivolus. It is synonym to levity. It is directly opposite to word serious.
Frivolity (noun): the quality or state of being frivolous.
Merriam-Webster defines frivolous (adj.) as,
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/frivolous
2.a: lacking in seriousness
His frequent frivolous behavior in the meeting is a big concern.
edited 23 hours ago
answered yesterday
Ubi hattUbi hatt
3,428826
3,428826
1
Frivolity doesn't usually refer to the way someone carries themself, which is a typical use of gravitas.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
@sondra.kinsey unfortunately, we can't say frivolitas or levitas.
– Ubi hatt
13 hours ago
add a comment |
1
Frivolity doesn't usually refer to the way someone carries themself, which is a typical use of gravitas.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
@sondra.kinsey unfortunately, we can't say frivolitas or levitas.
– Ubi hatt
13 hours ago
1
1
Frivolity doesn't usually refer to the way someone carries themself, which is a typical use of gravitas.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
Frivolity doesn't usually refer to the way someone carries themself, which is a typical use of gravitas.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
@sondra.kinsey unfortunately, we can't say frivolitas or levitas.
– Ubi hatt
13 hours ago
@sondra.kinsey unfortunately, we can't say frivolitas or levitas.
– Ubi hatt
13 hours ago
add a comment |
I generally agree that levity is a pretty direct antonym of gravitas, but "he carried himself with levity" doesn't sound right. So I'll suggest
insouciance
n. Blithe lack of concern; nonchalance.
New contributor
I guess I think of "insouciance" as a positive - an attractive characteristic, rather than in inappropriate light-mindedness.
– user888379
22 hours ago
add a comment |
I generally agree that levity is a pretty direct antonym of gravitas, but "he carried himself with levity" doesn't sound right. So I'll suggest
insouciance
n. Blithe lack of concern; nonchalance.
New contributor
I guess I think of "insouciance" as a positive - an attractive characteristic, rather than in inappropriate light-mindedness.
– user888379
22 hours ago
add a comment |
I generally agree that levity is a pretty direct antonym of gravitas, but "he carried himself with levity" doesn't sound right. So I'll suggest
insouciance
n. Blithe lack of concern; nonchalance.
New contributor
I generally agree that levity is a pretty direct antonym of gravitas, but "he carried himself with levity" doesn't sound right. So I'll suggest
insouciance
n. Blithe lack of concern; nonchalance.
New contributor
New contributor
answered yesterday
aserghawerghaergaserghawerghaerg
1071
1071
New contributor
New contributor
I guess I think of "insouciance" as a positive - an attractive characteristic, rather than in inappropriate light-mindedness.
– user888379
22 hours ago
add a comment |
I guess I think of "insouciance" as a positive - an attractive characteristic, rather than in inappropriate light-mindedness.
– user888379
22 hours ago
I guess I think of "insouciance" as a positive - an attractive characteristic, rather than in inappropriate light-mindedness.
– user888379
22 hours ago
I guess I think of "insouciance" as a positive - an attractive characteristic, rather than in inappropriate light-mindedness.
– user888379
22 hours ago
add a comment |
Flippancy, perhaps?
Flippant - Displaying unbecoming levity in the consideration of serious subjects or in behaviour to persons entitled to respect. (OED)
add a comment |
Flippancy, perhaps?
Flippant - Displaying unbecoming levity in the consideration of serious subjects or in behaviour to persons entitled to respect. (OED)
add a comment |
Flippancy, perhaps?
Flippant - Displaying unbecoming levity in the consideration of serious subjects or in behaviour to persons entitled to respect. (OED)
Flippancy, perhaps?
Flippant - Displaying unbecoming levity in the consideration of serious subjects or in behaviour to persons entitled to respect. (OED)
answered 22 hours ago
DanDan
15.6k32560
15.6k32560
add a comment |
add a comment |
What about apathy:
absence or suppression of passion, emotion, or excitement.
lack of interest in or concern for things that others find moving or exciting.
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/apathy
New contributor
1
The Stoic tradition believed strongly in both gravitas and apatheia. While modern apathy has different connotations, I still see gravitas as having a cool relaxed indifference that bears some resemblence to apathy.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
add a comment |
What about apathy:
absence or suppression of passion, emotion, or excitement.
lack of interest in or concern for things that others find moving or exciting.
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/apathy
New contributor
1
The Stoic tradition believed strongly in both gravitas and apatheia. While modern apathy has different connotations, I still see gravitas as having a cool relaxed indifference that bears some resemblence to apathy.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
add a comment |
What about apathy:
absence or suppression of passion, emotion, or excitement.
lack of interest in or concern for things that others find moving or exciting.
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/apathy
New contributor
What about apathy:
absence or suppression of passion, emotion, or excitement.
lack of interest in or concern for things that others find moving or exciting.
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/apathy
New contributor
New contributor
answered 22 hours ago
MISHAMISHA
311
311
New contributor
New contributor
1
The Stoic tradition believed strongly in both gravitas and apatheia. While modern apathy has different connotations, I still see gravitas as having a cool relaxed indifference that bears some resemblence to apathy.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
add a comment |
1
The Stoic tradition believed strongly in both gravitas and apatheia. While modern apathy has different connotations, I still see gravitas as having a cool relaxed indifference that bears some resemblence to apathy.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
1
1
The Stoic tradition believed strongly in both gravitas and apatheia. While modern apathy has different connotations, I still see gravitas as having a cool relaxed indifference that bears some resemblence to apathy.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
The Stoic tradition believed strongly in both gravitas and apatheia. While modern apathy has different connotations, I still see gravitas as having a cool relaxed indifference that bears some resemblence to apathy.
– sondra.kinsey
20 hours ago
add a comment |
Another option: nonchalance
the state or quality of being nonchalant; cool indifference or lack of concern; casualness.
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nonchalance
Nonchalance is still an attitude, as opposed to a quality. I couldn't imagine saying "Nobody will listen to me, I've just got too much nonchalance".
– AJFaraday
23 hours ago
2
Probably not, but I could imagine it as an adjective “Why won’t anyone take me seriously?” “Well, you are kind of nonchalant when you present.”
– Damila
23 hours ago
add a comment |
Another option: nonchalance
the state or quality of being nonchalant; cool indifference or lack of concern; casualness.
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nonchalance
Nonchalance is still an attitude, as opposed to a quality. I couldn't imagine saying "Nobody will listen to me, I've just got too much nonchalance".
– AJFaraday
23 hours ago
2
Probably not, but I could imagine it as an adjective “Why won’t anyone take me seriously?” “Well, you are kind of nonchalant when you present.”
– Damila
23 hours ago
add a comment |
Another option: nonchalance
the state or quality of being nonchalant; cool indifference or lack of concern; casualness.
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nonchalance
Another option: nonchalance
the state or quality of being nonchalant; cool indifference or lack of concern; casualness.
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/nonchalance
answered yesterday
DamilaDamila
5537
5537
Nonchalance is still an attitude, as opposed to a quality. I couldn't imagine saying "Nobody will listen to me, I've just got too much nonchalance".
– AJFaraday
23 hours ago
2
Probably not, but I could imagine it as an adjective “Why won’t anyone take me seriously?” “Well, you are kind of nonchalant when you present.”
– Damila
23 hours ago
add a comment |
Nonchalance is still an attitude, as opposed to a quality. I couldn't imagine saying "Nobody will listen to me, I've just got too much nonchalance".
– AJFaraday
23 hours ago
2
Probably not, but I could imagine it as an adjective “Why won’t anyone take me seriously?” “Well, you are kind of nonchalant when you present.”
– Damila
23 hours ago
Nonchalance is still an attitude, as opposed to a quality. I couldn't imagine saying "Nobody will listen to me, I've just got too much nonchalance".
– AJFaraday
23 hours ago
Nonchalance is still an attitude, as opposed to a quality. I couldn't imagine saying "Nobody will listen to me, I've just got too much nonchalance".
– AJFaraday
23 hours ago
2
2
Probably not, but I could imagine it as an adjective “Why won’t anyone take me seriously?” “Well, you are kind of nonchalant when you present.”
– Damila
23 hours ago
Probably not, but I could imagine it as an adjective “Why won’t anyone take me seriously?” “Well, you are kind of nonchalant when you present.”
– Damila
23 hours ago
add a comment |
Perhaps 'foppery'? aka: foolish character or action
"The entire exercise was laden with foppery, and as a result lacked any sense of gravitas."
Depending on the actual sentence structure, it could be 'foppish'.
"Nobody will listen to me, I'm far too foppish."
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foppery
That's over the moon here,isn't it? :)
– Lambie
22 hours ago
Seriously check this word in urbandictionary.com before you use it about a co-worker!
– CCTO
21 hours ago
@CCTO I couldn't find an entry for 'foppery' in urban dictionary, and similar entries for words starting with 'fop' don't seem widely used. 'foppish' does have an entry meaning basically 'effeminate'
– Daniel
24 mins ago
add a comment |
Perhaps 'foppery'? aka: foolish character or action
"The entire exercise was laden with foppery, and as a result lacked any sense of gravitas."
Depending on the actual sentence structure, it could be 'foppish'.
"Nobody will listen to me, I'm far too foppish."
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foppery
That's over the moon here,isn't it? :)
– Lambie
22 hours ago
Seriously check this word in urbandictionary.com before you use it about a co-worker!
– CCTO
21 hours ago
@CCTO I couldn't find an entry for 'foppery' in urban dictionary, and similar entries for words starting with 'fop' don't seem widely used. 'foppish' does have an entry meaning basically 'effeminate'
– Daniel
24 mins ago
add a comment |
Perhaps 'foppery'? aka: foolish character or action
"The entire exercise was laden with foppery, and as a result lacked any sense of gravitas."
Depending on the actual sentence structure, it could be 'foppish'.
"Nobody will listen to me, I'm far too foppish."
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foppery
Perhaps 'foppery'? aka: foolish character or action
"The entire exercise was laden with foppery, and as a result lacked any sense of gravitas."
Depending on the actual sentence structure, it could be 'foppish'.
"Nobody will listen to me, I'm far too foppish."
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/foppery
answered 23 hours ago
Theo BrinkmanTheo Brinkman
1411
1411
That's over the moon here,isn't it? :)
– Lambie
22 hours ago
Seriously check this word in urbandictionary.com before you use it about a co-worker!
– CCTO
21 hours ago
@CCTO I couldn't find an entry for 'foppery' in urban dictionary, and similar entries for words starting with 'fop' don't seem widely used. 'foppish' does have an entry meaning basically 'effeminate'
– Daniel
24 mins ago
add a comment |
That's over the moon here,isn't it? :)
– Lambie
22 hours ago
Seriously check this word in urbandictionary.com before you use it about a co-worker!
– CCTO
21 hours ago
@CCTO I couldn't find an entry for 'foppery' in urban dictionary, and similar entries for words starting with 'fop' don't seem widely used. 'foppish' does have an entry meaning basically 'effeminate'
– Daniel
24 mins ago
That's over the moon here,isn't it? :)
– Lambie
22 hours ago
That's over the moon here,isn't it? :)
– Lambie
22 hours ago
Seriously check this word in urbandictionary.com before you use it about a co-worker!
– CCTO
21 hours ago
Seriously check this word in urbandictionary.com before you use it about a co-worker!
– CCTO
21 hours ago
@CCTO I couldn't find an entry for 'foppery' in urban dictionary, and similar entries for words starting with 'fop' don't seem widely used. 'foppish' does have an entry meaning basically 'effeminate'
– Daniel
24 mins ago
@CCTO I couldn't find an entry for 'foppery' in urban dictionary, and similar entries for words starting with 'fop' don't seem widely used. 'foppish' does have an entry meaning basically 'effeminate'
– Daniel
24 mins ago
add a comment |
How about vacuity, silliness, or buffoonery?
foolishness, senselessness
– Daniel
32 mins ago
insincerity, flakiness, fishiness
– Daniel
28 mins ago
add a comment |
How about vacuity, silliness, or buffoonery?
foolishness, senselessness
– Daniel
32 mins ago
insincerity, flakiness, fishiness
– Daniel
28 mins ago
add a comment |
How about vacuity, silliness, or buffoonery?
How about vacuity, silliness, or buffoonery?
answered 6 hours ago
nanomannanoman
1773
1773
foolishness, senselessness
– Daniel
32 mins ago
insincerity, flakiness, fishiness
– Daniel
28 mins ago
add a comment |
foolishness, senselessness
– Daniel
32 mins ago
insincerity, flakiness, fishiness
– Daniel
28 mins ago
foolishness, senselessness
– Daniel
32 mins ago
foolishness, senselessness
– Daniel
32 mins ago
insincerity, flakiness, fishiness
– Daniel
28 mins ago
insincerity, flakiness, fishiness
– Daniel
28 mins ago
add a comment |
This is taken to mean seriousness.
[...]
There's another sense of the word, as the quality of a person having gravitas. In this case, the things they say and do are given significance because of gravitas.
The specific use of "gravitas", this sense of possessing gravitas lending weight or importance to a person leads me to believe you may be extending the meaning of the phrase "air of gravitas" to "gravitas" itself. I therefore believe you are looking for
insignificance, the quality or state of being insignificant, which is itself defined as
not significant: such as
a : lacking meaning or import
b : small in size, quantity, or number
c : not worth considering : unimportant
d : lacking weight, position, or influence : contemptible
(Merriam-Webster)
To put it in context from your question:
What if what someone has to say is automatically disregarded because
of their insignificance?
New contributor
add a comment |
This is taken to mean seriousness.
[...]
There's another sense of the word, as the quality of a person having gravitas. In this case, the things they say and do are given significance because of gravitas.
The specific use of "gravitas", this sense of possessing gravitas lending weight or importance to a person leads me to believe you may be extending the meaning of the phrase "air of gravitas" to "gravitas" itself. I therefore believe you are looking for
insignificance, the quality or state of being insignificant, which is itself defined as
not significant: such as
a : lacking meaning or import
b : small in size, quantity, or number
c : not worth considering : unimportant
d : lacking weight, position, or influence : contemptible
(Merriam-Webster)
To put it in context from your question:
What if what someone has to say is automatically disregarded because
of their insignificance?
New contributor
add a comment |
This is taken to mean seriousness.
[...]
There's another sense of the word, as the quality of a person having gravitas. In this case, the things they say and do are given significance because of gravitas.
The specific use of "gravitas", this sense of possessing gravitas lending weight or importance to a person leads me to believe you may be extending the meaning of the phrase "air of gravitas" to "gravitas" itself. I therefore believe you are looking for
insignificance, the quality or state of being insignificant, which is itself defined as
not significant: such as
a : lacking meaning or import
b : small in size, quantity, or number
c : not worth considering : unimportant
d : lacking weight, position, or influence : contemptible
(Merriam-Webster)
To put it in context from your question:
What if what someone has to say is automatically disregarded because
of their insignificance?
New contributor
This is taken to mean seriousness.
[...]
There's another sense of the word, as the quality of a person having gravitas. In this case, the things they say and do are given significance because of gravitas.
The specific use of "gravitas", this sense of possessing gravitas lending weight or importance to a person leads me to believe you may be extending the meaning of the phrase "air of gravitas" to "gravitas" itself. I therefore believe you are looking for
insignificance, the quality or state of being insignificant, which is itself defined as
not significant: such as
a : lacking meaning or import
b : small in size, quantity, or number
c : not worth considering : unimportant
d : lacking weight, position, or influence : contemptible
(Merriam-Webster)
To put it in context from your question:
What if what someone has to say is automatically disregarded because
of their insignificance?
New contributor
New contributor
answered 2 hours ago
Jon HarperJon Harper
1213
1213
New contributor
New contributor
add a comment |
add a comment |
Consider: mercuriality.
mercuriality
- the state or quality of having a lively, fickle, volatile, or erratic attitude or character.
- an instance of such behavior. — mercurial, adj.
The Free Dictionary.
1
I don't think that fits. While a mercurial temperament is lacking in gravitas, it isn't a polar opposite -- "gravitas" doesn't imply a decisive, slow-moving, or predictable nature, nor does "mercurial" imply frivolity.
– duskwuff
19 hours ago
add a comment |
Consider: mercuriality.
mercuriality
- the state or quality of having a lively, fickle, volatile, or erratic attitude or character.
- an instance of such behavior. — mercurial, adj.
The Free Dictionary.
1
I don't think that fits. While a mercurial temperament is lacking in gravitas, it isn't a polar opposite -- "gravitas" doesn't imply a decisive, slow-moving, or predictable nature, nor does "mercurial" imply frivolity.
– duskwuff
19 hours ago
add a comment |
Consider: mercuriality.
mercuriality
- the state or quality of having a lively, fickle, volatile, or erratic attitude or character.
- an instance of such behavior. — mercurial, adj.
The Free Dictionary.
Consider: mercuriality.
mercuriality
- the state or quality of having a lively, fickle, volatile, or erratic attitude or character.
- an instance of such behavior. — mercurial, adj.
The Free Dictionary.
answered 22 hours ago
Daniel R. CollinsDaniel R. Collins
904418
904418
1
I don't think that fits. While a mercurial temperament is lacking in gravitas, it isn't a polar opposite -- "gravitas" doesn't imply a decisive, slow-moving, or predictable nature, nor does "mercurial" imply frivolity.
– duskwuff
19 hours ago
add a comment |
1
I don't think that fits. While a mercurial temperament is lacking in gravitas, it isn't a polar opposite -- "gravitas" doesn't imply a decisive, slow-moving, or predictable nature, nor does "mercurial" imply frivolity.
– duskwuff
19 hours ago
1
1
I don't think that fits. While a mercurial temperament is lacking in gravitas, it isn't a polar opposite -- "gravitas" doesn't imply a decisive, slow-moving, or predictable nature, nor does "mercurial" imply frivolity.
– duskwuff
19 hours ago
I don't think that fits. While a mercurial temperament is lacking in gravitas, it isn't a polar opposite -- "gravitas" doesn't imply a decisive, slow-moving, or predictable nature, nor does "mercurial" imply frivolity.
– duskwuff
19 hours ago
add a comment |
I don't think this can be answered with only one word, honestly.
The media uses gravitas to describe politicians who have a lot of respect or political sway with other politicians even. I wouldn't use any of the words listed above to describe a human being who had the opposite of gravitas. I would call him/her feckless, when the object is a human. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feckless
If the object is an object, I agree with frivolous or the other antonyms listed here.
New contributor
add a comment |
I don't think this can be answered with only one word, honestly.
The media uses gravitas to describe politicians who have a lot of respect or political sway with other politicians even. I wouldn't use any of the words listed above to describe a human being who had the opposite of gravitas. I would call him/her feckless, when the object is a human. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feckless
If the object is an object, I agree with frivolous or the other antonyms listed here.
New contributor
add a comment |
I don't think this can be answered with only one word, honestly.
The media uses gravitas to describe politicians who have a lot of respect or political sway with other politicians even. I wouldn't use any of the words listed above to describe a human being who had the opposite of gravitas. I would call him/her feckless, when the object is a human. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feckless
If the object is an object, I agree with frivolous or the other antonyms listed here.
New contributor
I don't think this can be answered with only one word, honestly.
The media uses gravitas to describe politicians who have a lot of respect or political sway with other politicians even. I wouldn't use any of the words listed above to describe a human being who had the opposite of gravitas. I would call him/her feckless, when the object is a human. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/feckless
If the object is an object, I agree with frivolous or the other antonyms listed here.
New contributor
New contributor
answered 19 hours ago
user197001user197001
111
111
New contributor
New contributor
add a comment |
add a comment |
I would suggest Trumpishness. Maybe not common use yet, but it will be. Someone recently said "out-Nixoned Nixon". Everybody knew what that meant.
New contributor
add a comment |
I would suggest Trumpishness. Maybe not common use yet, but it will be. Someone recently said "out-Nixoned Nixon". Everybody knew what that meant.
New contributor
add a comment |
I would suggest Trumpishness. Maybe not common use yet, but it will be. Someone recently said "out-Nixoned Nixon". Everybody knew what that meant.
New contributor
I would suggest Trumpishness. Maybe not common use yet, but it will be. Someone recently said "out-Nixoned Nixon". Everybody knew what that meant.
New contributor
New contributor
answered 10 hours ago
user341579user341579
191
191
New contributor
New contributor
add a comment |
add a comment |
Carelessness
[kair-lis]
adjective
1) not paying enough attention to what one does
2) not exact, accurate, or thorough:
careless work.
2) done or said heedlessly or negligently; unconsidered:
4) not caring or troubling; having no care or concern; unconcerned (usually followed by of, about, or in)
5) possessed or caused without effort or art; unstudied
6) Archaic . free from anxiety.
Source: Dictionary.com
add a comment |
Carelessness
[kair-lis]
adjective
1) not paying enough attention to what one does
2) not exact, accurate, or thorough:
careless work.
2) done or said heedlessly or negligently; unconsidered:
4) not caring or troubling; having no care or concern; unconcerned (usually followed by of, about, or in)
5) possessed or caused without effort or art; unstudied
6) Archaic . free from anxiety.
Source: Dictionary.com
add a comment |
Carelessness
[kair-lis]
adjective
1) not paying enough attention to what one does
2) not exact, accurate, or thorough:
careless work.
2) done or said heedlessly or negligently; unconsidered:
4) not caring or troubling; having no care or concern; unconcerned (usually followed by of, about, or in)
5) possessed or caused without effort or art; unstudied
6) Archaic . free from anxiety.
Source: Dictionary.com
Carelessness
[kair-lis]
adjective
1) not paying enough attention to what one does
2) not exact, accurate, or thorough:
careless work.
2) done or said heedlessly or negligently; unconsidered:
4) not caring or troubling; having no care or concern; unconcerned (usually followed by of, about, or in)
5) possessed or caused without effort or art; unstudied
6) Archaic . free from anxiety.
Source: Dictionary.com
answered 2 hours ago
PV22PV22
4,248832
4,248832
add a comment |
add a comment |
Triviality
The ODO definition of 'triviality' states:
Lack of seriousness or importance; insignificance.
Here are ODO examples of usage:
‘the mediocrity and triviality of current popular culture’
‘the relentlessness of his triviality is grating’
So in your examples, we might have:
We need to undertake this project without triviality,
He carried himself in a trivial fashion.
What you are getting at is, I think, a kind of weightlessness, and 'ungroundedness' in a person or project, which leads to a desire to avoid or disregard them.
add a comment |
Triviality
The ODO definition of 'triviality' states:
Lack of seriousness or importance; insignificance.
Here are ODO examples of usage:
‘the mediocrity and triviality of current popular culture’
‘the relentlessness of his triviality is grating’
So in your examples, we might have:
We need to undertake this project without triviality,
He carried himself in a trivial fashion.
What you are getting at is, I think, a kind of weightlessness, and 'ungroundedness' in a person or project, which leads to a desire to avoid or disregard them.
add a comment |
Triviality
The ODO definition of 'triviality' states:
Lack of seriousness or importance; insignificance.
Here are ODO examples of usage:
‘the mediocrity and triviality of current popular culture’
‘the relentlessness of his triviality is grating’
So in your examples, we might have:
We need to undertake this project without triviality,
He carried himself in a trivial fashion.
What you are getting at is, I think, a kind of weightlessness, and 'ungroundedness' in a person or project, which leads to a desire to avoid or disregard them.
Triviality
The ODO definition of 'triviality' states:
Lack of seriousness or importance; insignificance.
Here are ODO examples of usage:
‘the mediocrity and triviality of current popular culture’
‘the relentlessness of his triviality is grating’
So in your examples, we might have:
We need to undertake this project without triviality,
He carried himself in a trivial fashion.
What you are getting at is, I think, a kind of weightlessness, and 'ungroundedness' in a person or project, which leads to a desire to avoid or disregard them.
answered 1 hour ago
EleventhDoctorEleventhDoctor
2,59611327
2,59611327
add a comment |
add a comment |
A favorite phrase I have seen used to describe people with the opposite of gravitas is to call them, basically a non-entity.
I think the description best suited to your needs is Mundane meaning supremely ordinary.
New contributor
add a comment |
A favorite phrase I have seen used to describe people with the opposite of gravitas is to call them, basically a non-entity.
I think the description best suited to your needs is Mundane meaning supremely ordinary.
New contributor
add a comment |
A favorite phrase I have seen used to describe people with the opposite of gravitas is to call them, basically a non-entity.
I think the description best suited to your needs is Mundane meaning supremely ordinary.
New contributor
A favorite phrase I have seen used to describe people with the opposite of gravitas is to call them, basically a non-entity.
I think the description best suited to your needs is Mundane meaning supremely ordinary.
New contributor
New contributor
answered 21 hours ago
ElliotElliot
111
111
New contributor
New contributor
add a comment |
add a comment |
protected by tchrist♦ 1 hour ago
Thank you for your interest in this question.
Because it has attracted low-quality or spam answers that had to be removed, posting an answer now requires 10 reputation on this site (the association bonus does not count).
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44
I wish the answer was "anti-gravitas"...
– Pam
yesterday
It might be helpful to provide example sentences where your particular sense is used. As I read your question, the example sentences you show are of a sense you don't want. -- I'm also unclear on the distinction in senses you seem to be making. You might want to clarify that, and example sentences of each (clearly labeled) can help.
– R.M.
23 hours ago
2
@Lambie I'd say 'gravitas' is a fairly old-fashioned word.
– AJFaraday
22 hours ago
2
"flibbertigibbetosity"
– Greg Lee
22 hours ago
2
Maybe it’s flibbertigibbetas
– Jim
20 hours ago