A1adjective1K

Boring

UK /["/ˈbɔːrɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈbɔːrɪŋ/"]/

Definition

not interesting; making you feel tired and impatient

In simple words: Not interesting or exciting.

Examples

  • The movie was so boring that I almost fell asleep.
  • He finds studying history boring and prefers science.
  • The lecture on economics was incredibly boring to the students.
  • She thought the book was boring and didn't finish reading it.
  • They went to a boring party with no interesting people.
  • Boring tasks can often lead to a lack of motivation.
  • He has a style of humor that others find boring.
  • The training program seemed boring and unengaging.

Usage notes

Use 'boring' to describe something that lacks interest. It’s suitable in most contexts, but may feel too blunt in formal situations. Instead, consider alternatives like 'uninteresting' or 'tedious' when speaking to someone in a professional setting.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'bore-ing' like a boring drill — it just goes round and round without anything exciting happening.

Collocations

  • be
  • look
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • for
  • boring old

Synonyms

  • dull
  • tedious
  • uninspiring
  • monotonous
  • mundane

Antonyms

  • exciting
  • interesting
  • engaging

Common mistakes

  • Using 'bore' instead of 'boring' as an adjective.
  • Saying 'boring to me' instead of 'boring for me'.
  • Confusing 'boring' with 'bored' when describing feelings.