adjective

industrious

/ɪnˈdʌstriəs/ · say it: in·DUS·tree·uhs

hardworking and productive

In Personality & Character

In more detail

1. (adjective) working hard and in a careful and organized way; showing dedication to work

Examples

She is an industrious student who completes all her assignments on time.

How to use industrious

Industrious describes someone who works hard with sustained effort and attention to detail, often implying systematic organization. It carries a positive, admiring tone and is commonly used in professional or formal contexts. While similar to diligent, industrious emphasizes the steady, productive nature of work rather than just careful attention.

Common phrases

industrious worker
industrious effort
industrious person
industrious community
remain industrious
industrious habits

Synonyms

diligent · hardworking · assiduous · conscientious · dedicated

Opposites

lazy · idle · indolent

Word family

industry · industriously · industriousness

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse industrious (hardworking) with industrial (relating to manufacturing or industry), which are different concepts entirely.

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