Fatuous: Meaning, Definition, Forms & Exercise!

“Fatuous” is a versatile word that is often used to describe something foolish, silly, or lacking in intelligence or good judgment. It is an adjective that has its roots in Latin and has been in use in the English language for centuries. This word is often employed to highlight the absurdity or pointlessness of certain actions, ideas, or behaviours during the IELTS Speaking mostly.

Forms of ‘Fatuous’:

• Adjective Form

The most common usage of “fatuous” is as an adjective. It describes something as lacking in seriousness or intelligence and is often used to criticize actions or ideas that appear trivial or nonsensical.

• His fatuous attempt to repair the complex machinery with a toothpick only led to further damage.

• The movie’s fatuous plot left the audience bewildered and disappointed.

• She dismissed his fatuous excuses for his tardiness, knowing they were just a cover for his laziness.

• Adverb Form 

Fatuously: The adverb form “fatuously” describes an action that is done in a foolish or nonsensical manner.

• He stared at the math problem fatuously, not comprehending the solution.
• The comedian’s jokes were delivered fatuously, failing to elicit any laughter from the audience.
• The team fatuously underestimated their opponents, leading to a humiliating defeat.

• Noun Form 

Fatuousness: The noun form “fatuousness” refers to the quality of being foolish, absurd, or lacking in intelligence.

• The company’s decision to invest in that project displayed a remarkable level of fatuousness.
• The professor’s lecture on conspiracy theories highlighted the fatuousness of such unfounded beliefs.
• The politician’s speech was filled with fatuousness, causing many to question his competence.

History of the Word 

The word “fatuous” derives from the Latin word “fatuus,” which means “foolish” or “silly.” It entered the English language during the 17th century, and its usage has continued to evolve over the centuries. The term is rooted in the concept of displaying a lack of intelligence or common sense, making it a valuable addition to the English vocabulary.

Common Misspellings:

Due to its less common usage in everyday language, “fatuous” might be susceptible to misspellings. Some common misspellings include:

• “Fatuos”
• “Fatious”
• “Fattuous”

Exercise:

Instructions: Fill in the blanks with the appropriate synonym or antonym of the word ‘fatuous.’ Choose the correct word from the options provided in the table below.

• His __________ remarks during the meeting showed a lack of intelligence.

1. a) astute b) fatuous c) sensible

• She made a(n) __________ decision to quit her stable job without a backup plan.

1. a) judicious b) fatuous c) rational

• The __________ comedy show had the audience roaring with laughter.

1. a) intelligent b) fatuous c) serious

• Their __________ approach to solving the complex puzzle impressed everyone.

1. a) smart b) fatuous c) shrewd

• The novel’s plot was so __________ that readers struggled to take it seriously.

1. a) ridiculous b) fatuous c) logical

• The team’s __________ strategy secured them a victory in the competition.

1. a) foolish b) fatuous c) wise

• His __________ explanations for his actions only raised further suspicions.

1. a) sound b) fatuous c) intelligent

• The teacher praised her __________ analysis of the complex historical event.

1. a) superficial b) fatuous c) insightful

Answer Key

• His b) fatuous remarks during the meeting showed a lack of intelligence.

• She made a(n) b) fatuous decision to quit her stable job without a backup plan.

• The b) fatuous comedy show had the audience roaring with laughter.

• Their b) fatuous approach to solving the complex puzzle impressed everyone.

• The novel’s plot was so a) ridiculous that readers struggled to take it seriously.

• The team’s c) wise strategy secured them a victory in the competition.

• His b) fatuous explanations for his actions only raised further suspicions.

• The teacher praised her c) insightful analysis of the complex historical event.

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