painstakingly - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
painstakingly Word Meanings
- meticulously, with great care to avoid mistakes
- thoroughly, with a lot of effort and attention to detail
- figuratively, describing work done with intense effort and precision
painstakingly Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
painstakingly Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpeɪnˌsteɪkɪŋli/
US
/ˈpeɪnˌsteɪkɪŋli/
painstakingly Word Etymology
Root decomposition: pain = hard work or trouble; taking = from take; combined as pain-taking, forming the idea of taking pains. Historical origin: from the phrase take pains, with pain meaning trouble or exertion; entered English via Old French peine (from Latin poena). Later emerged as the adjective painstaking and the adverb painstakingly by adding -ly. Memory image: imagine a careful artisan assembling a tiny mechanism, sweating slightly but persisting to align every gear, because every detail must be perfect.
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
Painstakingly describes doing something with meticulous care and effort, often because accuracy matters more than speed. When you approach a task painstakingly, you attend to every tiny detail, double-check measurements, and revise as needed to avoid mistakes. It carries a sense of persistence and concentration, sometimes implying effort that is visible or exhausting. In writing, design, or craft, a painstakingly produced result reflects patience and discipline. The adverb emphasizes thoroughness over haste, and it can be used figuratively to describe work aimed at solving a difficult problem rather than physical labor.
Usage Reminders
- 1. Pair with verbs like organize, check, revise, design.
- 2. Note contrast with carefully vs painstakingly.
- 3. Use in formal writing to emphasize thoroughness.
- 4. Consider whether the task truly demands high precision.
- 5. Avoid overusing in casual or rapid tasks.
Common Misconceptions
- It means simply taking a long time, not necessarily careful work.
- It is interchangeable with 'carefully' in all contexts.
- It only applies to manual labor or crafts.
- It implies perfection in every case, which is unrealistic.
- Using it always has a negative tone about speed.
Thinking Differences
In English, painstakingly signals extra effort and thoroughness beyond ordinary care. Learners often misplace it with slower pace or replace it with 'carefully' in casual contexts, missing the emphasis on sustained focus and time invested.
Learning Tips
- 1) Learn common collocations: painstakingly organize, painstakingly check, painstakingly revise.
- 2) Compare with carefully to hear the nuance of time and effort.
- 3) Use in formal writing to stress thoroughness.
- 4) Practice avoiding with casual tasks where speed matters.
- 5) Notice intonation in spoken English to convey effort.
- 6) Create a mini-glossary of synonyms with shades of effort.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the best definition of the word 'painstakingly'?
A.Quickly and without attention
B.In a way that causes physical pain
C.With great care and attention to detail; very thorough and meticulous
D.With minimal effort or care
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses the word 'painstakingly' correctly?
A.They painstakingly canceled the meeting without checking the agenda.
B.He painstakingly screamed when he hit his thumb with the hammer.
C.She painstakingly assembled the model ship, gluing each tiny piece with steady hands.
D.The student painstakingly copied the answers from the board at lightning speed.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'painstakingly'?
A.meticulously
B.hastily
C.randomly
D.carelessly
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the best opposite (antonym) of 'painstakingly'?
A.meticulously
B.carelessly
C.diligently
D.thoroughly
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where it would be appropriate to use the word 'painstakingly'?
A.Winning a sprint race by running faster than everyone else.
B.Restoring a faded painting by cleaning and repairing every tiny crack over several weeks.
C.Making a sandwich in less than two minutes before leaving the house.
D.Laughing with friends at a quick joke during a party.
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