Laboriously Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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laboriously

[ˌleɪˈbɔːriəsli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

work

in a way that requires a lot of time and effort

Synonyms

arduously, diligently, industriously, painstakingly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
laboriously	When describing an activity that requires a lot of hard work and effort, often implying that it is slow and difficult. She laboriously climbed the steep mountain, taking care with each step He laboriously wrote the lengthy report by hand
diligently	When highlighting careful and persistent work or effort, often with a sense of responsibility and commitment. She diligently worked on her homework every night The scientists diligently collected data for their research
industriously	When describing someone who works hard and energetically on a consistent basis, often used to praise their work ethic. The team industriously worked to meet the project deadline He industriously managed all aspects of his business
painstakingly	When focusing on meticulous and thorough effort put into a task to ensure accuracy and detail, often involving great care. She painstakingly painted each detail of the intricate mural The jewelry was painstakingly crafted by the artisan
arduously	When referring to tasks that are extremely demanding physically or mentally, emphasizing the struggle and effort involved. The explorers arduously trekked through the dense jungle The construction of the bridge was arduously completed over several years

Examples of usage

She labored laboriously to finish the project on time.
The artist laboriously painted each detail of the mural.
He laboriously climbed to the top of the mountain.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

writing

in a way that is slow and difficult to read or understand

Synonyms

difficultly, slowly, tediously.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
laboriously	Used when someone is doing something with a lot of effort and hard work, often involving a significant amount of time and physical or mental strain. She laboriously climbed the steep hill with her heavy backpack. He laboriously pieced together the shattered vase, one fragment at a time.
slowly	Appropriate when describing an action that is taking a long time to be completed or is progressing at a sluggish pace. Neutral in tone. He slowly walked across the street. The old clock ticked slowly in the quiet room.
difficultly	Used to indicate that something is being done with great difficulty. It often implies that the task is challenging and not done with ease. He answered the tricky question difficultly after much hesitation. She walked difficultly through the thick snow.
tediously	Used to describe something that is not only slow but also boring and monotonous. This word often has a negative connotation. The meeting dragged on tediously as the presenter went through each slide in excessive detail. He tediously sorted through the paperwork, feeling bored and weary.

Examples of usage

The legal document was laboriously written with complex language.
She laboriously translated the ancient text into modern English.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In literature, characters often take laborious journeys, symbolizing personal growth through hardship.
Many classic novels, like 'Moby Dick', depict laborious efforts in pursuit of elusive goals, highlighting themes of obsession and endurance.
Poets frequently use the term to convey the weight of emotional struggles, illustrating the 'labor' of life.

Science

Research shows that laborious tasks can lead to higher satisfaction when completed, as they often represent personal achievement.
Studies in cognitive psychology reveal that prolonged effortful tasks can improve resilience and cognitive skills.
The 'effort justification' principle suggests that the harder you work for something, the more you value it.

Psychology

Laborious tasks can trigger the brain's reward system, emphasizing the relationship between effort and gratification.
Cognitive dissonance theory relates to the idea that people endure laborious processes to maintain commitment to their choices.
Procrastination often occurs with laborious tasks due to their daunting nature, impacting motivation and productivity.

Pop Culture

Films often portray heroes overcoming laborious challenges to achieve their goals, inspiring audiences with tales of perseverance.
Reality TV shows frequently feature laborious competitions, highlighting the struggle and dedication contestants must invest.
Songs and lyrics sometimes touch on the theme of laborious love, expressing the challenges within relationships.

Origin of 'laboriously'

Main points about word origin

The word originates from the Latin 'laboriosus', which means 'full of labor, hard-working'.
It was first used in English in the late 16th century, reflecting the value placed on hard work.
The root word 'labor' is connected to both physical and mental work, emphasizing effort.

The word 'laboriously' originates from the word 'laborious', which comes from the Latin word 'laboriosus', meaning 'full of labor'. It has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe actions or tasks that require a great deal of effort and time. Over the years, 'laboriously' has been commonly used in various contexts to convey the idea of working diligently or in a slow and painstaking manner.

See also: labor, laboratory, laborer, laborers, laboring.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,098, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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20095 husk
20096 lavishly
20097 evicted
20098 laboriously
20099 stiffening
20100 thawed
20101 equating
...