Tilled: meaning, definitions and examples

Similar to 'plow', but generally used to describe the condition of the soil after it has been prepared for planting.

• The garden was freshly tilled and ready for planting.
• They tilled the soil in preparation for spring planting.

Specifically when speaking about the act of turning over the soil using a tool or machine before planting. Can also be used in a figurative sense to mean moving forcefully through something.

• The farmer used a tractor to plow the field.
• She had to plow through a lot of paperwork before the meeting.

When referring to the act of preparing land for growing crops or plants, and also used metaphorically for developing skills or relationships.

• Farmers cultivate the soil before planting seeds.
• He spent years cultivating his public speaking skills.

Can be used broadly to refer to any type of labor, including agricultural. It is more general and less specific.

• They had to work the field from dawn till dusk.
• She enjoys working in her garden on weekends.

Used specifically in agriculture to describe the preparation of soil for planting crops. Implies turning over the soil.

• The farmer tilled the field before planting the seeds.
• Tilled soil is essential for a good harvest.

A general term for performing tasks or duties, can refer to both physical and mental activities. It is the most commonly used term.

• I have to go to work every day from 9 to 5.
• She did her work quickly and efficiently.

Implies strenuous, exhausting work, often with a negative connotation of suffering or difficulty over a long period.

• The miners toiled deep underground for hours.
• Despite years of toil, he never achieved his dreams.

Refers to physical or mental work, usually emphasizing hard work and effort. Often used in economic contexts or to describe workers in general.

• The construction workers' labour was evident in the newly built structure.
• She went into labour and delivered a healthy baby.