# hardworking

/ˈhɑɹdˌwɝkɪŋ/ (US) · /hˈɑːdwɜːkɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hardworking
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

putting a lot of effort and care into your work. You use this to describe someone who is not lazy and stays focused on their tasks.

For teachers: characterised by constant, diligent, and earnest effort in one's work or duties. Typically describes individuals or their habits; gradable in formal writing.

## Examples

- She is a very hardworking student.
- The manager promoted him because he is the most hardworking person on the team.
- Success in this competitive industry requires a hardworking attitude and the ability to remain productive under significant pressure.

## Pitfalls

- Not "he works very hardworking" but "he works very hard" — Learners often confuse the adjective 'hardworking' with the adverbial phrase 'work hard'.

## Usage notes

- Often modified by degree adverbs like 'very', 'extremely', or 'incredibly'.

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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.