drudgery - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
drudgery Word Meanings
- hard, dull work
- tedious or menial tasks
- repetitive and exhausting labor
drudgery Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
drudgery Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈdrʌdʒəri/
US
/ˈdrʌdʒəri/
drudgery Word Etymology
Root: drudge (to do hard work) + -ery (suffix indicating a place or condition). Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'drogier', derived from a Germanic root. Memory image: Imagine a person in a muddy field, tirelessly performing repetitive tasks, a symbol of monotony and laborious duty.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Drudgery refers to hard, dull, or tedious work that is repetitive, unglamorous, and often taken for granted in daily life. It covers routine tasks that are necessary but not inspiring, such as filing papers, cleaning, or repetitive factory labor. The word carries a sense of weariness and monotony; it is not about difficult or dangerous work, but about long hours of repetitive effort that drain energy. People may speak of the drudgery of chores or the drudgery of a long commute, yet the term can also be used figuratively to describe tedious aspects of any job. Etymology traces to drudge and the suffix -ery, indicating a state or place of work.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use drudgery for repetitive, unglamorous tasks rather than dangerous or highly skilled work.
- 2) Pair with adjectives like tedious, tiresome, or monotonous to sharpen tone.
- 3) Say ‘the drudgery of daily life’ to describe routine burdens.
- 4) Contrast with ‘hard work’ when emphasizing challenge or skill.
- 5) Highlight emotional tone by adding a verb, e. g., ‘endured the drudgery’ or ‘resisted the drudgery’.
Common Misconceptions
- It always means dangerous or physically hard work.
- It is the same as simply ‘hard work’.
- It only refers to dirty or menial labor in factories.
- It cannot be used for mental or emotional fatigue.
- It is a modern, casual slang not acceptable in formal writing.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Practice with both noun and noun-phrase forms (the drudgery, drudgery of).
- Note collocations: drudgery of daily life, drudgery at work.
- Contrast with hard work to highlight difference in motivation.
- Use in both literal and figurative senses.
- Record your own sentences to feel the tone.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'drudgery'?
A.Pleasant and enjoyable work
B.A thrilling adventure
C.Hard, menial, or dull work
D.A type of musical performance
Step 2: Usage
Identify the correct sentence using 'drudgery'.
A.The drudgery of the party made everyone leave early.
B.He found the drudgery of his creative tasks exhilarating.
C.After a long week, she dreaded the drudgery of her repetitive job.
D.The beautiful scenery was a drudgery to behold.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'drudgery'?
A.Excitement
B.Boredom
C.Hustle
D.Diligence
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'drudgery'?
A.Routine
B.Joy
C.Labor
D.Monotony
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving 'drudgery'?
A.She looked forward to her daily tasks, finding them quite stimulating.
B.The long hours of cleaning the old house felt like a constant drudgery.
C.He finished his work with contentment, enjoying every moment.
D.The excitement of the project made it a rewarding experience.
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