Bernard Cornwell

One book at a time... though I'm usually doing the research for others while I'm writing, but that sort of research is fairly desultory and I like to stick to the book being written - and writing a book concentrates the mind so the research is more productive.

British Novelist

Michael Dirda

For me, the two weeks between Christmas and Twelfth Night have come to be reserved for desultory reading. The pressure of the holiday is over, the weather outside is frightful, there are lots of leftovers to munch on, vacation hours are being used up.

American Critic

William Cowper

The earth was made so various, that the mind Of desultory man, studious of change, And pleased with novelty, might be indulged.

English Poet

F. Sionil Jose

My reading of philosophy and history is desultory; I know so much and yet so little.

Filipino Writer

Use 'desultory' when the conversation jumps aimlessly between topics without any intention.

Unfocused Dialogue

'Desultory' suggests a lack of direction or focus, often seen as unproductive or negative.

Without Direction

Sometimes 'desultory' can imply casualness or relaxed behavior without a negative connotation.

Not All Negative

'Desultory' also applies to actions that occur at irregular intervals, appearing disconnected.

Nonsequential Activity

Using 'desultory' can imply that someone's effort is seen as half-hearted or uninspired.

Perceived Effort

'Desultory' can suggest inconsistency in quality, often in a disappointing way.