strenuous - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
strenuous Word Meanings
- requiring great effort
- demanding physical or mental energy
- vigorous and intense
strenuous Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
strenuous Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈstrɛn.ju.əs/
US
/ˈstrɛn.ju.əs/
strenuous Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'strenuous' comes from 'strenuus' (Latin) meaning 'active' or 'energetic'. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Picture a person climbing a steep mountain, panting and pushing themselves to the limit, representing the intense effort implied by 'strenuous'.
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
Strenuous describes tasks or activities that demand unusually great effort, energy, or endurance. It signals more than just 'hard' or 'difficult'; it implies sustained, vigorous exertion, whether you are lifting, climbing, or concentrating for long periods. You can use it for physical workouts, demanding jobs, or mentally taxing decisions. In everyday speech, people often pair it with adverbs like 'extremely' or 'highly' to intensify the sense. It also carries a nuance of pushing beyond comfort, sometimes to the point of fatigue. Remember that the word focuses on the level of energy required, not necessarily danger or risk.
Usage Reminders
- Strenuous emphasizes high exertion and sustained effort.
- Use it for tasks that demand long-lasting energy, not minor chores.
- It can describe physical work or mental labor.
- Often appears with intensifiers like extremely or highly.
- Remember the adverb form is strenuously, not strenuous.
Common Misconceptions
- It's not the same as 'hard'; it implies higher intensity and endurance.
- It's not only for physical effort; mental labor can be strenuous too.
- It does not inherently mean danger; it focuses on energy expenditure.
- Avoid using it for minor tasks or chores.
- Remember the adverb is strenuously, not strenuous.
Thinking Differences
In English, strenuous conveys intensity and endurance in a way that isn’t always captured by words like 'hard' or 'difficult'. Learners often overgeneralize to softer senses or apply it to too-easy tasks. Pay attention to collocations with physical or mental activities and to the common adverbs that strengthen it.
Learning Tips
- Create a mini glossary of strenuous-related phrases (strenuous workout, strenuous climb).
- Notice collocations with extremely, highly, and other intensifiers.
- Practice both physical and mental contexts in sentences.
- Record contrast sentences with hard/difficult to feel the nuance.
- Use the adverb form correctly: 'strenuously' (not 'strenuous' as an adverb).
- Write 5 personal examples showing intentional energy expenditure.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'strenuous' mean?
A.Requiring little effort
B.Requiring great effort
C.Requiring average effort
D.Requiring no effort
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'strenuous' correctly.
A.His efforts to climb the mountain were quite strenuous.
B.The workout was so strenuous that I finished it in ten minutes.
C.She found the task strenuous, but it was very easy.
D.The cake was so strenuous that no one could eat it.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'strenuous'?
A.Difficult
B.Easy
C.Calm
D.Relaxed
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'strenuous'?
A.Effortless
B.Intense
C.Challenging
D.Exhausting
Step 5: Mastery
Describe a real-life context that could illustrate the meaning of 'strenuous'.
A.The hike to the mountain's summit was quite laborious and exhausting.
B.Working on a simple art project can be relaxing.
C.Running a marathon can be extremely tiring.
D.Completing a puzzle can be very easy.
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