strenuous
STREN-yoo-uss
/ˈstrɛn.ju.əs/
Requiring or using great exertion, energy, or labor.
Describes tasks or workouts that demand high exertion and physical strain, often carrying a warning about health limits.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'strenuus' (brisk, bold, eager). It entered Middle English during the Renaissance to describe active, energetic soldiers before expanding into physical exercise terminology.
Word relationships
- arduous: Implies severe difficulty and tiring labor beyond mere physical effort.
- vigorous: Emphasizes energy and liveliness rather than painful hardship.
- effortless: Requiring almost no physical or mental exertion.
- gentle: Mild and low in intensity.
Commonly confused with
- strident: Strident refers to loud, harsh sound, whereas strenuous refers to intense exertion.
Word family
- strenuously (adverb): In a strenuous manner; with high effort.
- strenuousness (noun): The state or quality of being strenuous.
Collocations
- strenuous exercise
- strenuous effort
- avoid strenuous activity
- strenuous physical workout
Example sentences
- "Consult your physician before engaging in any strenuous exercise routine after surgery." Medical advisory
Memory hook
Strain and continuous effort make an exercise strenuous. Strain + Continuous = Strenuous.
When not to use
Avoid using for light, easy, or casual activities.
Fun facts
- President Theodore Roosevelt popularized 'the strenuous life' as an ideal of vigorous physical and moral living in 1899.
Related words
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