tedious - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
tedious Word Meanings
- boring and tiring due to length or dullness
- time-consuming and mentally exhausting
- repetitive and monotonous
tedious Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
tedious Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtiːdiəs/
US
/ˈtiːdiəs/
tedious Word Etymology
From Latin 'taedium' (weariness) + '-ous' (full of). Imagine a long, dull lecture that makes you feel tired, like sitting in a classroom for hours without break.
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
Tedious describes tasks or experiences that feel dull, repetitive, and draining because they take a long time or lack variety. It signals more than simple boredom: the mental effort can be exhausting, making you wish the moment would end. You might describe a long paperwork process, a lecture with little variation, or a repetitive factory routine as tedious. The word often carries a slightly negative nuance, suggesting impatience or fatigue, but it also communicates a clear shared perception of the experience. Learners should contrast it with interesting or engaging, which carry positive connotations, to avoid misusing it for short, fast-paced activities.
Usage Reminders
- Use tedious for long, dull experiences that drain energy.
- Not for quick or exciting activities.
- Often describes tasks rather than people.
- Pair with adjectives like long, monotonous, repetitive.
- Avoid overusing; reserve for clearly draining processes.
- Compare with boring to emphasize duration and effort.
Common Misconceptions
- Tedious is the same as boring; it always describes emotions, not duration.
- It only applies to long tasks, never short ones.
- A tedious activity can't be engaging or interesting in any part.
- Tedious is used for people, not tasks or events.
- Confusing tedious with tiresome or dull without the nuance of time.
Thinking Differences
In English, tedious often describes a feeling about a long, unvarying task. Learners should watch for collocations with long, monotonous, or repetitive, and avoid applying it to short or exciting activities.
Learning Tips
- Link tedious to long, repetitive processes you actually dislike.
- Contrast with interesting to sharpen sense of nuance.
- Use with nouns like task, procedure, process to emphasize duration.
- Practice with phrases long and monotonous to build collocations.
- Note common mistakes: not for short, exciting activities.
- Record usage in sentences to hear the nuance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'tedious'?
A.Boring
B.Interesting
C.Exciting
D.Fascinating
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'tedious' correctly?
A.The party was full of fun and excitement.
B.She couldn't stop laughing at the joke.
C.The long, tedious meeting seemed never-ending.
D.The movie was action-packed and thrilling.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'tedious'?
A.Exhilarating
B.Monotonous
C.Engaging
D.Captivating
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'tedious'?
A.Interesting
B.Thrilling
C.Exciting
D.Fascinating
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you use the word 'tedious'?
A.An engaging book
B.A thrilling roller coaster ride
C.A long wait at the doctor's office
D.A quick and easy task
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App