# diligently

/ˈdɪɫədʒəntɫi/ (US) · /dˈɪlɪdʒəntli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/diligently
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

doing something with great care and hard work. You use this when someone puts a lot of effort into a task to make sure it is done perfectly.

For teachers: characterised by persistent, painstaking effort and thoroughness. Typically modifies verbs related to work, study, or investigation.

## Examples

- She works diligently to finish her projects on time.
- The legal team worked diligently for months to review every document before the trial began.
- By diligently documenting every minor observation in her field journal, the researcher was able to identify a pattern that previous teams had overlooked during their shorter stays.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He is a diligently worker" but "He is a diligent worker" — Learners often use the adverb form 'diligently' to modify a noun, but the adjective 'diligent' is required for nouns.

## Usage notes

- Manner adverb — typically placed after the verb or at the end of the clause.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.