diligence

USAGE SUMMARY

'diligence' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that is hardworking and attentive. For example: "The teacher was impressed with the student's diligence throughout the school year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We hope this is accepted so that we may proceed with due diligence forthwith and make a start to the task of rebuilding Rangers Football Club of 1872".

The Guardian - Sport

His parents were teachers, and he seemed born to exert diligence and acquire merit.

The Guardian

Regardless of where an NGO is operating, the same kind of due diligence and planning applies.

The Guardian

"Universities do their due diligence but often tend to focus more on the business aspects than the cultural context, even in the case of long-term deals".

The Guardian

The data sought was on the order of a "mergers and acquisitions analysis", the sort of due diligence that another firm interested in buying Fatima might conduct, including "an abundant amount of financial and investor data that would illuminate with whom Fatima interacted".

The Guardian

Another study that forms part of the EU's impact assessment accompanying the regulation will report that due diligence reporting typically costs less than 0.05% of company turnover.

The Guardian

In the US, a comparable piece of legislation passed in 2010, the Dodd-Frank Act, obliges corporate disclosure by stock exchange-listed firms of minerals sourced from the DRC, using OECD due diligence guidelines.

The Guardian

Related: Essendon verdict: AFL anti-doping tribunal clears past and present players In a statement, AFL spokesman Andrew Dillon said he was thankful for the work and diligence the tribunal had put in, in what was a complicated case.

The Guardian - Sport

"The circumstances surrounding the case have been extremely difficult, given the amount of information and the number of parties involved, and the professionalism and diligence of the Tribunal has been greatly appreciated by the AFL".

The Guardian - Sport

"We are fully cooperating with authorities and will continue to work with law enforcement, airport authorities, and our security partners to perform due diligence in upholding high security standards," wrote a spokeswoman in a statement to the Guardian.

The Guardian

The Bangalore principles of judicial conduct (pdf) set out six principles to guide the proper discharge of the judicial office: independence, impartiality, integrity, propriety, equality, and competence and diligence.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "diligence" with adjectives like "due", "great", or "utmost" to enhance its impact and specify the degree of effort exerted. For example, "due diligence".

Common error

Avoid using "diligence" when you actually mean intelligence or skill. "Diligence" refers to the consistent and painstaking effort applied, not innate abilities.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "diligence" is as a noun, typically used to describe the quality of being careful and persistent in one's work or efforts. Ludwig confirms its usage in various contexts, emphasizing its role in characterizing dedicated effort.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "diligence" is a versatile noun that describes consistent and careful effort. Ludwig's analysis, leveraging numerous examples, confirms its frequent use in news, formal business settings, and even scientific contexts. While grammatically straightforward, "diligence" carries a sense of formality and seriousness, making it suitable for professional communications. Be mindful not to confuse it with similar qualities like intelligence. To enhance your writing, use Ludwig’s suggestions for synonyms and typical errors for the word "diligence".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assiduousness

Refers to persistent and careful attention, highlighting the steadiness of effort.

perseverance

Emphasizes the continuation of effort despite difficulties or obstacles.

industriousness

Focuses on the quality of being hardworking and productive.

dedication

Highlights commitment and devotion to a task or purpose.

thoroughness

Stresses the completeness and attention to detail in one's work.

attentiveness

Emphasizes being observant and careful, paying close attention to details.

application

Refers to the consistent effort and focus applied to a task.

conscientiousness

Focuses on being careful, diligent, and responsible in one's work.

sedulousness

Emphasizes persistent and careful attention to detail.

persistent effort

Highlights the continuous exertion of energy to achieve a goal.

FAQs

How to use "diligence" in a sentence?

You can use "diligence" to describe someone's consistent effort and careful work, as in "Her "diligence" in studying led to excellent grades".

What can I say instead of "diligence"?

You can use alternatives like "assiduousness", "perseverance", or "industriousness" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "due diligence"?

Yes, "due diligence" is a common and correct phrase, especially in legal and business contexts. It refers to the necessary investigation and care taken before making a decision or entering into an agreement.

What is the difference between "diligence" and "persistence"?

"Diligence" implies careful and consistent effort, whereas "persistence" suggests continuing despite obstacles. Diligence focuses on how the work is done, while persistence focuses on continuing the work regardless of challenges.