Idle vs. Idol: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Harlon Moss || Published on December 21, 2023
'Idle' refers to a state of inactivity or not being used, while 'idol' means a person or object admired and revered, often religiously.
Key Differences
'Idle' describes a lack of activity or being in a state of doing nothing, often associated with wasting time. In contrast, 'idol' refers to a figure or entity greatly admired, worshiped, or revered, sometimes in a religious context. These terms diverge completely in their application, with 'idle' typically having a negative connotation, and 'idol' suggesting respect or adoration.
The word 'idle' can also imply something not currently in use, like machinery in a dormant state. 'Idol', however, signifies a symbolic representation, often embodying ideals or attributes admired by individuals or a group. While 'idle' often points to a temporary and changeable state, 'idol' tends to represent enduring admiration or worship.
In a figurative sense, 'idle' can describe pointless or fruitless actions or words. On the other hand, 'idol' is used to symbolize something or someone held in high esteem, sometimes to the point of imitation. The contrast is stark: 'idle' activities bear no fruit, whereas 'idols' inspire and influence.
Technologically, 'idle' is used to describe systems or processes that are running but not actively engaged in productive tasks. In cultural contexts, an 'idol' often refers to a celebrity or public figure idolized by fans. Here, 'idle' signifies underutilization, whereas 'idol' embodies the pinnacle of fame and admiration.
Linguistically, 'idle' can also mean lacking basis or reason, as in idle rumors. Conversely, 'idol' embodies the concept of idealization, often beyond just admiration, suggesting a deeper emotional or spiritual connection. Thus, 'idle' often carries a sense of emptiness, whereas 'idol' is filled with meaning and significance.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Being inactive or unengaged
A person or object of admiration
Connotation
Often negative, implying waste
Positive, implying reverence
Usage in Context
Describes lack of activity or use
Symbolizes admiration or worship
Figurative Meaning
Fruitless actions or words
Source of inspiration or influence
Relation to People
Can refer to unproductive behavior
Often refers to revered figures
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Idle and Idol Definitions
Idle
Lacking worth or basis.
He dismissed the rumors as idle gossip.
Idol
An object of worship.
The ancient statue was revered as an idol.
Idle
Not engaged in productive activity.
He spent an idle afternoon watching TV.
Idol
A symbol representing a concept or person.
She was an idol of fashion and style.
Idle
Of a motor running while the vehicle is not moving.
The car engine idled at the traffic light.
Idol
A person greatly admired.
The movie star was an idol to many fans.
Idle
Causing time to pass without purpose.
She idly flipped through the magazine.
Idol
A celebrity or icon in popular culture.
The singer was a pop idol of the 1980s.
Idle
Not active or in use.
The machine lay idle for months.
Idol
An image used as an object of worship.
Idle
Not employed or busy
Idle carpenters.
Idol
A false god.
Idle
Disinclined to work or be active; lazy
“a man who could seem idle, ignorant, even incompetent, yet was able to understand and to express ... the instincts, good and bad, of the American majority” (Godfrey Hodgson).
FAQs
What does idle mean?
Idle refers to being inactive or not in use.
Is being idle always negative?
Being idle is often seen negatively but can be neutral, like a car idling.
Are idols always religious?
Idols can be religious, but also include admired persons or symbols.
Can a person be an idol?
Yes, people, especially celebrities, can be considered idols.
Is 'idle chat' meaningless?
Idle chat often implies casual, non-substantial conversation.
What's an example of idle behavior?
Aimlessly browsing the internet is an example of idle behavior.
Can someone idolize a concept?
Yes, concepts like freedom or justice can be idolized.
What is an idol?
An idol is an object or person greatly admired or worshiped.
Are idols always positive influences?
Idols can have positive or negative influences, depending on context.
Can machines be idle?
Yes, machines can be idle when not operating or in use.
Do idols have to be physical objects?
Idols can be intangible, like the idea of a person or value.
Is it common to have idols?
Many people have idols, be it celebrities, leaders, or personal heroes.
Do idols vary across cultures?
Yes, idols differ widely across different cultures and times.
Can idols change over time?
People's idols can change as their beliefs and values evolve.
Is it good to have idols?
Having idols can be positive if it inspires and motivates positively.
Can idle time be beneficial?
Idle time can be beneficial for relaxation and creativity.
Does idling waste resources?
Idling, like a car engine running stationary, can waste fuel.
How do idols influence people?
Idols often influence people's behavior, style, or beliefs.
What's the opposite of being idle?
Being active, engaged, or productive is the opposite of being idle.
Can technology be idle?
Yes, computers or systems can be in an idle state when not actively used.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
