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adjective

hardworking

HARD-wur-king

Hardworking (adjective) means putting consistent effort and long hours into a job or task, and reliable about doing so. Example: “She is the most hardworking person on the ward.”

adjective
1
Putting consistent effort and long hours into a job or task, and reliable about doing so.
"She is the most hardworking person on the ward."
"They wanted a hardworking, punctual apprentice."

How to use hardworking

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomeone who works a lot and does it properly.

When to use it

Neutral and positive; safe in references and job applications.

Memory tip

Never write hard working as two separate words before a noun; a hard working man reads as a man who is working hard right now.

Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
hard work (noun) workaholic diligent
Common pairings
hardworking family hardworking staff honest and hardworking
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She is the most _____ person on the ward.

Etymology

From hard + working.

Related words

Rhymes for hardworking

See all rhymes for hardworking →

Frequently asked questions

Is it hardworking or hard-working?

Both are correct. Hardworking as one word is now the more common form, especially in American English; British publishers still often hyphenate it, particularly before a noun.

What is the difference between hardworking and workaholic?

Hardworking is a compliment about effort and reliability. Workaholic describes someone who cannot stop working, and it implies the habit is damaging their health or family life.

Is hardworking overused on a CV?

Very. Recruiters see it on almost every application, so it carries little weight on its own. Naming a result you achieved says the same thing far more convincingly.

What is the meaning of hardworking?

"hardworking" (adjective) means putting consistent effort and long hours into a job or task, and reliable about doing so.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial · etymology from Wiktionary