Question

prince vasili always spoke languidly, like an actor repeating a stale part. anna pavlovna often overflew with animation and impulsiveness. to be an enthusiast had become her social vocation and, sometimes even when she did not wish it, she delivered little speeches of which she herself was very proud. she neither wished, nor could, nor considered it necessary, to correct them.
(from war and peace by leo tolstoy)
which is the best definition of languidly?

1. carefully
2. infrequently
3. listlessly
4. soothingly

Explanation:

To determine the best definition of "languidly", we analyze the options:

• "carefully" implies attention to detail, not related to languid (lethargic) behavior.
• "infrequently" refers to frequency, not the manner of action.
• "soothingly" relates to calming, not sluggishness.
• "listlessly" means in a lethargic, sluggish, or apathetic manner, which matches the meaning of "languidly" (showing a lack of energy or enthusiasm).

Answer:

1. listlessly