# vigorously

/ˈvɪɡɝəsɫi/ (US) · /vˈɪɡəɹəsli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/vigorously
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

to do something with a lot of energy, strength, or effort.

For teachers: in a way that involves physical strength, effort, or energy; with great force or intensity.

## Examples

- He shook his head vigorously to say no.
- The lawyer vigorously defended her client against the accusations during the trial.
- The research team vigorously pursued every lead, eventually uncovering a pattern that had been overlooked by previous investigators for decades.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He vigorously worked" but "He worked vigorously" — Adverbs of manner like 'vigorously' usually follow the verb or the object rather than sitting between the subject and the verb.

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies or the direct object.

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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.