diligently
Americanadverb
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of diligently
Explanation
Doing something diligently means doing it thoroughly and well. It's the opposite of doing it lazily or shoddily. If you are tireless, persevering, and do things with great care, then you do things diligently. This is an adverb that goes with hard and careful work. If you have a test coming up, the more diligently you review your materials, the better your grade will be. Workers who do their job diligently tend to get promoted. Some dogs diligently pursue squirrels in the park. When someone uses this word about something you've done, it's a huge compliment.
Vocabulary lists containing diligently
This Week in Pop Culture: February 2 - 8, 2019
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President Obama's Speech at the United Nations
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Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Diligently researched and written in a breezy, conversational style, “Stupid TV” is a fine addition to the growing body of literature devoted to an American classic.
From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 21, 2025
Diligently enforced safety measures slightly harshed the vibe of this storied event, a rigorous yet relaxing haven for contemporary music tucked in an idyllic valley of straight-faced mysticism and sweet Pixie tangerines.
From New York Times • Sep. 20, 2021
Diligently undertake a simple chore at home and become obsessed with it.
From The Guardian • Apr. 25, 2017
Diligently watch the register to make sure you’re getting the advertised price for each item.
From Southern Living • May 12, 2011
Diligently as they worked, the sun was sinking rapidly towards the horizon before the boat was free of sand.
From The Three Admirals by Wells, J.R.
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.