activity

The word “activity” means the state of being busy or full of movement and action. In plain terms, movement, busyness, or something specific that people do, often for exercise, fun, or work.

“Activity” is pronounced ak-TIHV-ih-tee (/ækˈtɪv.ɪ.ti/ in IPA).

Here is “activity” used in a sentence: “The market was full of activity early in the morning.”

Words with a similar meaning to “activity” include doings, endeavor, enterprise, pursuance, pursuit and undertaking.

The opposite of “activity” — its antonyms — are rest and passivity.

“Activity” is a noun.

The word “activity” comes from Latin. From Middle French activité, from Latin activitas, ultimately from agere ("to do, act").

“Activity” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

An action is a single, specific thing done — one deed or movement. Activity is the broader state of being busy, the ongoing movement made up of many actions. One action is a single step, while activity is the general bustle and busyness surrounding it.

A task is a specific piece of work with a clear goal to complete, like "send the report." An activity is broader — any occupation or pursuit that keeps you busy, such as hiking or reading. Tasks tend to be duties, while activities can also be done for enjoyment.

Activity takes many forms: physical activity such as exercise and sport, mental activity such as reading or problem-solving, social activity with others, and economic activity in business. In each case, the common thread is movement, action, and being actively engaged rather than idle.

The opposite of activity is inactivity, rest, or stillness — a state of little movement or action. Words like idleness, inaction, and dormancy also capture that absence of the busyness and motion that "activity" describes when nothing much is happening.