Painstaking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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painstaking
[หpeษชnหsteษชkษชล ]
Definition
effortful work
Painstaking refers to something that requires a lot of careful attention and thorough effort. It often describes work that is done meticulously, showing diligence in detail. This term highlights the hard work and carefulness involved in accomplishing a task.
Synonyms
careful, diligent, exacting, meticulous, thorough.
Examples of usage
- She undertook a painstaking review of the manuscript.
- The artist's painstaking attention to detail impressed everyone.
- He took a painstaking approach to renovating the old house.
- After a painstaking search, they found the missing documents.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Arts
- In visual arts, painstaking work is often seen in intricate details of paintings or sculptures, reflecting a high level of skill and dedication.
- Famous artists like Michelangelo and Van Gogh are known for their painstaking attention to detail in their masterpieces.
Science
- Research and experiments in science often require painstaking steps to ensure accuracy and reliability in results.
- Groundbreaking discoveries, such as those in genetics, are the result of painstaking work over many years.
Literature
- Classic novels often feature characters who undertake painstaking journeys, reflecting their growth and dedication to their goals.
- Authors dedicate painstaking hours to editing and refining their works, ensuring clarity and impact.
Psychology
- Studies show that individuals who employ a painstaking approach tend to produce higher quality work through increased focus and dedication.
- Learning and mastering new skills often require a painstaking effort, linking to concepts of growth mindset and perseverance.
Origin of 'painstaking'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the word 'pain', which means effort or hard work, combined with 'staking', suggesting careful placement or action.
- It first appeared in English texts in the early 19th century, emphasizing careful or meticulous work.
The word 'painstaking' is derived from the combination of 'pain' and 'staking'. The term 'pain' in this context is used in its older meaning, which refers to effort or labor rather than discomfort. While it may initially seem counterintuitive, this connotation of 'pain' reflects the strenuous nature of the work being described. 'Staking' refers to the effort or investment put into a task. The word emerged in the late 19th century, illustrating a time when detailed and laborious work was increasingly appreciated in various fields, including art, science, and literature. The evolution of 'painstaking' embodies the cultural shift towards valuing diligence and thoroughness in craftsmanship.