English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun B1 Intermediate Uncommon

diligence

DIH-lihd-zhuhns

Diligence (noun) means careful, steady, and hard-working effort applied to a task. Example: “Her diligence in studying paid off with top grades.”

noun
1
Careful, steady, and hard-working effort applied to a task.
"Her diligence in studying paid off with top grades."
"The auditors praised the team’s diligence in checking every record."

How to Use Diligence

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSteady, careful hard work and attention to detail.

Common pairings
due diligence with diligence diligence and care

Word Forms

diligences plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “diligence” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her _____ in studying paid off with top grades.

Etymology

Borrowed from French diligence, from Latin diligentia.

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for diligence

See all rhymes for diligence →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “diligence” mean?

The word “diligence” means careful, steady, and hard-working effort applied to a task. In plain terms, steady, careful hard work and attention to detail.

How do you pronounce “diligence”?

“Diligence” is pronounced DIH-lihd-zhuhns (/ˈdɪlɪd͡ʒəns/ in IPA).

How do you use “diligence” in a sentence?

Here is “diligence” used in a sentence: “Her diligence in studying paid off with top grades.”

What is another word for “diligence”?

Words with a similar meaning to “diligence” include worksomeness.

What part of speech is “diligence”?

“Diligence” is a noun.

Where does the word “diligence” come from?

The word “diligence” comes from Latin. Borrowed from French diligence, from Latin diligentia.

Is “diligence” a common word?

“Diligence” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial