What is strenuous? Pronunciation and usage in English

strenuous means . Learn how to pronounce and use strenuous through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of strenuous

strenuousadjective

/ˈstrenjuəs//ˈstrenjuəs/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "strenuous." It can be a tricky one! Here’s a breakdown with audio links to help you:

1. Syllables:

The word "strenuous" has three syllables:

  • streh (rhymes with "tree")
  • nuh (like the number “nine”)
  • us (like the pronoun “you”)

2. Phonetic Breakdown (using IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

  • /ˈstre.nju.əs/

3. How to Say It (Step-by-Step):

  • "Streh": Start with a short "e" sound, like in "bed." Then add a slightly throaty "r" sound, as if you're starting a growl (but softer!).
  • "Nuh": Say the syllable “nuh” with a short “u” sound, similar to “but”.
  • "Us": Pronounce “us” just as you would the pronoun “you”.

4. Putting It Together:

Slowly blend the sounds together: streh-nuh-us

5. Tips for Accuracy:

  • The "r" sound: This is the most common difficulty. Don't make it a strong, rolled "r" like in Spanish. It’s a lighter, slightly back-of-the-throat "r."
  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: "streh."

6. Listen and Repeat:

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  • Give you some example sentences using "strenuous"?

Usage and examples with the word strenuous in English

Let's break down how to use the word "strenuous" effectively in English.

1. Meaning:

"Strenuous" means requiring or involving great effort, exertion, or energy. It implies a demanding and challenging activity. It’s often used to describe physical activity, but can also apply to mental or emotional efforts.

2. Parts of Speech & Typical Usage:

  • Adjective: This is the most common way you'll encounter it. It describes a noun.

    • Example: "The hike was strenuous, with steep inclines and rocky terrain." (Describing the hike)
    • Example: “He gave a strenuous performance in the play.” (Describing the performance)

  • Noun (less common): It can also be used as a noun, referring to an act of great effort.

    • Example: “His strenuous efforts to save the company were ultimately unsuccessful.” (Referring to the effort itself)

3. Synonyms:

Here are some words that can be used instead of "strenuous," depending on the nuance you want to convey:

  • Hard: (Simple, general effort) – "A hard workout"
  • Difficult: (Focuses on the challenge) – "A difficult task"
  • Demanding: (Suggests needing a lot of attention and effort) – “A demanding job”
  • Arduous: (Implies prolonged and painful effort) – "An arduous journey"
  • Exhausting: (Highlights the draining effect) – "An exhausting climb"
  • Laborious: (Similar to arduous, often used for work) – “A laborious process”
  • Tiring: (Simple, focuses on causing tiredness) – "A tiring day”

4. Examples in Sentences:

  • Physical Activity: "The marathon was a strenuous test of endurance."
  • Mental Effort: “He faced a strenuous debate with the opposing lawyer.”
  • Work: “The job requires a strenuous schedule and long hours.”
  • Emotional: “Her strenuous attempts to comfort him were heartfelt.”
  • General: "The research project was a strenuous undertaking, requiring countless hours of analysis."

5. Tips for Using It Effectively:

  • Contrast is often helpful: Using "strenuous" can be more impactful when you contrast it with something easier. "It was a strenuous climb, unlike the gentle slope of the other trail."

  • Don't overuse it: "Strenuous" is a relatively strong word. Use it judiciously when the effort truly is considerable.

  • Consider the context: Make sure the activity genuinely requires significant effort.

Resources for More Examples:

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Synonyms for the word strenuous

Practice with vocabulary strenuous

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research team undertook a particularly ________ analysis of the vast dataset, working long hours to meet the deadline.
  2. Despite the initial difficulties, her ________ commitment to the project ensured its eventual success.
  3. Moving all the equipment to the new lab proved to be a ________ task, requiring significant physical exertion from the entire staff.
  4. The financial department had to ________ a detailed report on the company's quarterly performance.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following tasks typically requires a strenuous mental effort? A) Solving a complex mathematical equation B) Browsing social media casually C) Writing a detailed research proposal D) Watching a sitcom E) Preparing for a high-stakes legal argument

  2. The company decided to implement a new software system, which led to a ________ transition period for all employees. A) seamless B) challenging C) effortless D) disruptive E) smooth

  3. Which adjectives could describe a physically demanding and tiring activity? A) Light B) Effortless C) Exerting D) Strenuous E) Relaxing

  4. To ensure the project's success, the team needed to ________ their resources and collaborate effectively. A) squander B) pool C) optimize D) neglect E) scatter

  5. Completing the advanced certification program was a truly ________ endeavor, requiring countless hours of study and practical application. A) trivial B) laborious C) undemanding D) strenuous E) facile

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The hikers found the ascent to the peak to be extremely physically demanding. (Rewrite using "strenuous")
  2. After hours of intense debate, the committee finally reached a consensus on the complex policy. (Rewrite using "strenuous" or a related word form)
  3. The company decided to reduce the number of unnecessary steps in their production line to save time and resources. (Rewrite without using "strenuous")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. strenuous
  2. unwavering
  3. strenuous
  4. compile

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. A) Solving a complex mathematical equation, C) Writing a detailed research proposal, E) Preparing for a high-stakes legal argument
  2. B) challenging, D) disruptive
  3. C) Exerting, D) Strenuous
  4. B) pool, C) optimize
  5. B) laborious, D) strenuous

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The ascent to the peak was a strenuous climb for the hikers.
  2. The committee engaged in a strenuous debate for hours before reaching a consensus on the complex policy.
  3. The company decided to streamline their production line to save time and resources.

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