| 释义 |
inactivity|ɪnækˈtɪvɪtɪ|
[in-3. Cf. F. inactivité (1790 in Hatz.-Darm.).]
The quality or condition of being inactive; want of activity; inertness, sluggishness; passiveness, quiescence.
1646Sir T. Browne Pseud. Ep. i. v. 18 By a temperamentall inactivity we are unready to put in execution the suggestions or dictates of reason. 1723Pope Let. to Gay 21 July, Lett. 1735 I. 326 Poor Fenton..died at Easthamstead, of Indolence and Inactivity. 1738Swift To Dr. King 1 Virtue conceal'd within our breast, Is inactivity at best. 1830Kater & Lardner Mech. iii. 33 The term inactivity implying the absence of all force.
b. Phrase. masterly inactivity.
1791Mackintosh Vind. Gallicæ i. (1837) 44 The Commons, faithful to their system, remained in a wise and masterly inactivity, which tacitly reproached the arrogant assumption of the Nobles. 1831J. C. Calhoun Wks. (1874) V. 143 If the Government should be taught that the highest wisdom of a state is a wise and masterly inactivity, an invaluable blessing will be conferred. 1848― Sp. Oregon Quest. ibid. IV. 286, I venture to say ‘a wise and masterly inactivity’, in despite of the attempt to cast ridicule upon the expression. 1867J. Wyllie in Edin. Rev. Jan. [ 1868G. Duff Pol. Surv. 71 The much-sneered-at policy of masterly inaction.] |