# enterprising

/ˈɛnɝˌpɹaɪzɪŋ/ (US) · /ˈɛntəpɹˌaɪzɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/enterprising
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

having the ability to start new businesses or take risks to achieve success. You use this to describe someone who is creative and willing to try new things.

For teachers: possessing the initiative, resourcefulness, and willingness to take calculated risks to achieve a goal. Often used to describe individuals or businesses that are innovative and proactive.

## Examples

- She is an enterprising young woman who started her own tech company.
- The local government encourages enterprising citizens to develop small businesses that can provide jobs and boost the economy.
- The enterprising spirit of the early settlers allowed them to establish a thriving community despite the harsh environmental conditions and limited resources available at the time.

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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.