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What is the Meaning of “Diligent”?

Diligent
/ˈdɪlɪdʒənt/
adjective C2 Tier 5 (Rare) formal academic

Working very carefully, persistently, and thoroughly without becoming distracted or careless.

Definition of Diligent

Quick Meaning of Diligent

Working very carefully, persistently, and thoroughly without becoming distracted or careless.

Detailed Definition of Diligent

Showing careful and persistent effort in work or duties

How to Pronounce Diligent

IPA: /ˈdɪlɪdʒənt/
dil i gent

Stress pattern: Ooo (3-syllable word).

Tip: See IPA: /ˈdɪlɪdʒənt/

Watch out: See pronunciation tip.

Full pronunciation guide for “diligent” →

Origin and Etymology of Diligent

From Latin 'diligens' (loving, attentive), from 'diligere' (to esteem highly): 'di-' (apart) + 'legere' (to choose, pick out). Implies thoughtful selection.

How to Use Diligent in a Sentence

Each example shows “diligent” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “The diligent student spent hours researching for her thesis.”
    C2 academic
  • “His diligent attention to detail prevented errors in the design.”
    C2 formal
  • “She maintained a diligent practice schedule to perfect her skills.”
    C2 written

Synonyms and Antonyms of Diligent

Common Synonyms for Diligent

Smart Synonyms for Diligent — When to Use Each

hardworking
Showing careful effort broadly
careful
Very careful and precise exactly
assiduous
Persistently diligent very similar

Antonyms of Diligent

See all synonyms for “diligent” →

Common Collocations with Diligent

These phrases pair with “diligent” in everyday English:

  • diligent work
  • diligent effort
  • diligent student
  • diligent approach

Common Mistakes When Using Diligent

Even fluent speakers slip up with “diligent”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: Incorrect use of diligent.
✓ Correct: Correct use of diligent.
Why: See usage tip for correct usage context.
✗ Wrong: Another incorrect use of diligent.
✓ Correct: Another correct use of diligent.
Why: See collocations for typical uses.
✗ Wrong: Third incorrect use of diligent.
✓ Correct: Third correct use of diligent.
Why: Review the main meaning and usage tip.

Other Forms of Diligent

Frequently Asked Questions About Diligent

What is the meaning of "Diligent"?

Working very carefully, persistently, and thoroughly without becoming distracted or careless.

How do you pronounce "Diligent"?

The IPA is /ˈdɪlɪdʒənt/. See IPA: /ˈdɪlɪdʒənt/

What part of speech is "Diligent"?

"Diligent" is an adjective at C2 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Diligent"?

Common synonyms include hardworking, careful, assiduous.

How do you use "Diligent" in a sentence?

For example: "The diligent student spent hours researching for her thesis."

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