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  1. Home /
  2. Dictionaries /
  3. English Dictionary /
  4. strenuous

strenuous

/ˈstrɛn.ju.əs/
requiring great physical or mental effort

The hike was strenuous, but the view at the top was worth it.

The hike required a lot of physical effort, but the reward was beautiful scenery.


formal

requiring or involving great physical or mental effort

She completed a strenuous workout routine every morning.

She did a very demanding exercise routine each morning.

The strenuous debate lasted for hours without a resolution.

The intense and exhausting discussion continued for a long time without a conclusion.

Often used to describe activities that are physically or mentally demanding.

Collocations

strenuous efforta very demanding or exhausting attemptstrenuous exerciseintense physical activitystrenuous activitya demanding task or endeavor

Synonyms

demandingexhaustinggruelingtaxingrigorous

Antonyms

easyeffortlesslightsimpleundemanding

Pro Tip

Usage Tip

Use 'strenuous' to emphasize the intensity of an activity, whether physical or mental.

Word Origin

From Latin 'strenuus' meaning 'vigorous' or 'strong', related to 'strenuity' (strength).

Usage Notes

Often used to describe activities that require significant physical or mental exertion. Can be used in both physical and mental contexts.

Word Breakdown

strenu-
strong, vigorous
root
+
-ous
having the quality of
suffix
English Dictionary
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Words of the Year

The most notable words that defined each year. Discover the vocabulary that shaped our world.