Lax

Adjective

Definition: Not sufficiently strict, severe, or careful.

Definition: Relaxed or loose in texture, structure, or arrangement.

Synonyms: Lenient, Slack, Permissive, Easygoing

Antonyms: Strict, Stringent, Rigorous, Disciplined

Examples:

The company had lax security measures, which led to a major data breach.
The teacher was too lax with the students, allowing them to get away with disruptive behavior.

Mnemonics:

Think of "lax" as "lacking" strictness or seriousness.
Picture a loose elastic band, representing something that is lax.

Etymology:

Origin:

Late Middle English "lax," from Latin "laxus" meaning loose or slack.

Historical Usage:

The word "lax" has maintained its meaning of being not sufficiently strict or careful since its origin.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Lax in one's duties"

Explanation:

Refers to someone who is not diligent or responsible in fulfilling their obligations.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Assuming "lax" means lazy or indifferent.

Explanation:

While someone who is lax may exhibit lazy or indifferent behavior, the term specifically refers to a lack of strictness or severity, rather than laziness in general.