Meaning of diligence in English

Table of contents
  1. Pronunciation
  2. Noun
    1. Etymology
    2. Definitions

  1. Pronunciation

    /ˈdɪlədʒəns/

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  1. Noun

    diligence

    Etymology

    Middle English (in the sense ‘close attention, caution’): via Old French from Latin diligentia, from diligent-‘assiduous’ (see diligent)

    Definitions

    1. conscientiousness in paying proper attention to a task

    Examples

    • « giving the degree of care required in a given situation »
  2. 2. persevering determination to perform a task

    Examples

    • « his diligence won him quick promotions »
    • « frugality and industry are still regarded as virtues »
  3. 3. a diligent effort

    Examples

    • « it is a job requiring serious application »

    Derived terms

Famous quotes

  • « Being forced to work, and forced to do your best, will breed in you temperance and self-control, diligence and strength of will, cheerfulness and content, and a hundred virtues which the idle will never know. »
    Charles Kingsley
  • « Diligence is the mother of good luck. »
    Benjamin Franklin
  • « Patience and Diligence, like faith, remove mountains. »
    William Penn
  • « Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and diligence. »
    Abigail Adams
  • « If your determination is fixed, I do not counsel you to despair. Few things are impossible to diligence and skill. Great works are performed not by strength, but perseverance. »
    Samuel Johnson

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