industrious - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
industrious Word Meanings
- diligent and hard-working
- showing careful effort in tasks
- characterized by persistent work ethic
industrious Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
industrious Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪnˈdʌst.rɪ.əs/
US
/ɪnˈdʌstriəs/
industrious Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'industry' + '-ous'. Historical origin: Latin 'industria' → Old French 'industrié' → English 'industrious'. Memory image: Picture a busy bee tirelessly working in a garden, collecting nectar, symbolizing hard work and diligence.
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
Industrious describes a person who is diligent, hardworking, and committed to tasks over time. An industrious individual plans ahead, perseveres through challenges, completes work with care, and takes pride in quality. In daily life, industrious behavior appears as consistent study or work habits, a reliable work ethic, and a proactive approach to problems. The term often conveys respect for steady effort and persistent progress, rather than sudden bursts of talent. In many contexts, industrious people build skills gradually, meet deadlines, and contribute reliably to teams and communities.
Usage Reminders
- Industrious is an adjective
- Use with nouns like person, worker, or student
- Avoid confusing with industrial which relates to factories or manufacturing
- Common collocations include industrious worker and strong work ethic
- Emphasize steady effort and progress, not a one-time talent
Common Misconceptions
- Industrious means being busy all the time, not taking breaks
- It isn’t the same as talented or gifted; effort matters more than raw ability
- It doesn’t imply perfection; steady progress is enough
- Don’t confuse with ‘industrial’ or ‘industry’ contexts
- Can describe people who are steady rather than flashy in achievement
Thinking Differences
In English, industrious is often tied to steady, long-term effort and a moral sense of diligence that fits many work or study contexts. Learners may overgeneralize it to mean simply busy or fast, or confuse it with busywork. Emphasize its focus on sustained, quality effort over time.
Learning Tips
- Focus on collocations: industrious person, industrious student.
- Compare with diligent and hardworking to feel nuance.
- Watch for the connotation of steady effort.
- Note it describes attitude over talent.
- Practice with real-life routines and deadlines.
- Use in both formal and informal contexts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'industrious'?
A.Hardworking and diligent
B.Lazy and unproductive
C.Inexperienced and naive
D.Careless and reckless
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'industrious' correctly?
A.The industrious student completed all her homework.
B.She was very industrious in her efforts to avoid working.
C.He was industrious because he never did any chores.
D.Their industrious attitude led them to frequent vacations.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'industrious'?
A.Lethargic
B.Apathic
C.Diligent
D.Inconsiderate
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'industrious'?
A.Lazy
B.Sidle
C.Hardworking
D.Tenacious
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might be described as industrious?
A.She prefers to lounge on the couch rather than working on her projects.
B.The chef spent time crafting exquisite dishes for his restaurant.
C.The student decided to take the semester off to travel.
D.He rarely completed any assignments throughout the course.
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