Diligent
Adjective
Definition: Having or showing care and conscientiousness in one's work or duties.
Synonyms: Assiduous, Industrious, Hardworking
Antonyms: Lazy, Careless, Negligent
- She is a diligent student who always completes her assignments on time.
- The diligent employee worked late to finish the project before the deadline.
- "Diligent" can be associated with the phrase "doing your due diligence" which means thoroughly researching or investigating something.
Etymology:
The word "diligent" comes from the Latin word "diligentem" (nominative "diligens") which means "careful, assiduous" and is derived from the verb "diligere" meaning "to value highly".
Historical Usage:The term has been used in English since the 14th century and has maintained its meaning of careful and conscientious work throughout history.
Related Idioms:
"Diligent as a beaver"
Explanation:This phrase refers to someone who is extremely hardworking and diligent, drawing a parallel with the industrious nature of beavers.
Misconceptions:
Diligent and hardworking are synonymous.
Explanation:While "hardworking" is often used interchangeably with "diligent," being diligent also implies being careful, thorough, and conscientious in addition to putting in effort.