What is vigour? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "vigour" in English. It's a beautiful, slightly old-fashioned word that adds a lot of nuance to your writing and speech.

1. Core Meaning:

At its heart, "vigour" means energy, liveliness, and strength. It’s more than just being active; it’s about having a robust and spirited quality.

2. Common Uses & Examples:

• Describing People: This is where "vigour" is most frequently used.

  • "She moved with a surprising vigour despite her age." (Implies she’s energetic and alert)
  • "The young athlete possessed a natural vigour and determination."
  • “He entered the room with a noticeable vigour, immediately commanding attention.”

• Describing Places/Environments: It can evoke a sense of vitality.

  • "The countryside offered a welcome vigour after the grey city." (Suggests freshness and vibrancy)
  • "The garden was bursting with vigour, full of blooming flowers and healthy plants."

• Describing Ideas/Projects: It can indicate enthusiasm and strong belief.

  • "The campaign was driven by a genuine vigour for social justice."
  • “There's a real vigour behind her research, a commitment to finding a solution.”

• Figurative Use (less common): It can be used metaphorically to describe something that seems to possess a pulsing, inner life. This is less frequent and might sound slightly elevated.

  • “The old castle retained a strange vigour, as if the memories of those who lived there still clung to its stones.” (This is a more evocative, literary use.)

3. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

• Energy
• Vitality
• Spirit
• Zest
• Enthusiasm
• Force
• Drive
• Strength

4. Important Nuances:

• Not just ‘busy’: "Vigour" implies a quality of energy – it's not just about doing lots of things. It’s about a deep-seated, resilient energy.
• Positive Connotation: "Vigour" is almost always a positive word.

5. Examples in Sentences (varied):

• "The speaker’s vigour was infectious, captivating the audience with her passionate delivery."
• “Despite the challenges, the team maintained their vigour and worked tirelessly towards their goal.”
• “The old oak tree stood as a symbol of vigour, rooted firmly in the earth.”
• “He approached the task with remarkable vigour, determined to succeed.”

Resources for Further Exploration:

• Merriam-Webster Dictionary: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vigour
• Oxford Learner's Dictionaries: https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/vigour

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

• What kind of writing are you working on? (e.g., creative writing, academic essay, casual conversation)
• Could you give me an example sentence where you’re thinking of using “vigour”?