enterprising

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "enterprising" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is resourceful, innovative, and willing to take risks in order to achieve goals, often in a business context. Example: "Her enterprising spirit led her to start her own successful company at a young age."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Journalists must now contend with both the threat of being shot, or detained, or attacked by enterprising members of the general public who have it rammed down their throats – by local media – that al-Jazeera and foreign journalists are out to spread chaos in Egypt.

The Guardian - Opinion

John Thorp, Thameswey's managing director, sees potential for a big expansion in local energy schemes, driven by enterprising councils.

The Guardian

Solid defensively and relentlessly enterprising going forward, he seems certain to become a regular for England and for a Champions League club.

The Guardian - Sport

Two enterprising Labour-councillors in Brightside produced badges proclaiming the Socialist Republic.

The Guardian

However, attitudes are starting to change, and I saw many enterprising people using homemade crutches and wheelchairs in public.

The Guardian

Stalag 17, set in a Luftwaffe-run prison camp, starred William Holden as cynical, enterprising US airman Sefton.

The Guardian

But wherever there is a financial crackdown, there are also enterprising moneymen looking to exploit remaining loopholes or to create new ones.

The Economist

I'm not sure which enterprising soul first sold home-made food to spectators here, but the city should build a statue to her (and I'd bet dollars to doughnuts it was a her, the wife or girlfriend or mother of one of the players).

The Economist

He launched Japan's first ever hostile bid, for Fujisankei Communications Group, a big broadcaster, and dabbled in politics.Corporate governance has probably not improved since his fall, but Japan has become more enterprising.

The Economist

But many are just as enterprising.

The Economist

The state telephone system was destroyed in the civil war and has now been replaced, at least in the main towns by enterprising Somalis.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "enterprising" to describe individuals or entities that display initiative and resourcefulness in pursuing opportunities or overcoming challenges. It's particularly effective in business and economic contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "enterprising" as a noun. It's an adjective. Instead of saying "He is an enterprising", say "He is an enterprising individual" or "He possesses an enterprising spirit".

Linguistic Context

The adjective "enterprising" primarily functions to describe a noun, indicating that the noun possesses qualities of initiative, resourcefulness, and a willingness to undertake new ventures. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "enterprising" is a versatile adjective used to describe initiative, resourcefulness, and a proactive approach. Ludwig AI confirms that the word is correct and usable in written English. It is commonly found in news, business, and formal contexts. Alternative phrases include "resourceful", "innovative", and "ambitious". A key writing tip is to avoid using "enterprising" as a noun; instead, use it as an adjective to modify a noun. This comprehensive analysis provides writers with a clear understanding of how to effectively incorporate "enterprising" into their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enterprising spirit

This emphasizes the mindset and attitude associated with being enterprising.

resourceful

Emphasizes the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.

innovative

Highlights the introduction of new ideas or methods.

ambitious

Focuses on having a strong desire and determination to succeed.

self-starting

Highlights the ability to begin and pursue tasks independently, without needing direction.

proactive

Stresses taking initiative by anticipating future problems, needs, or changes.

go-getting

This implies a strong ambition and willingness to work hard to achieve success.

dynamic

Implies being energetic, vigorous, and capable of adapting to new situations.

business-minded

Focuses specifically on having a practical and strategic approach to business ventures.

venturesome

Stresses a willingness to take risks and try new, potentially daring activities.

FAQs

How can I use "enterprising" in a sentence?

"Enterprising" is typically used to describe someone who is resourceful, innovative, and willing to take risks. For example, "The "enterprising young entrepreneur" started a successful business from scratch".

What are some synonyms for "enterprising"?

Alternatives to "enterprising" include "resourceful", "innovative", "ambitious", and "proactive". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does it mean to have an "enterprising spirit"?

Having an "enterprising spirit" means possessing a strong desire to create, innovate, and take calculated risks to achieve goals. It implies a proactive and resourceful approach to challenges.

Is "enterprising" a formal or informal word?

"Enterprising" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in business, news, and general conversation to describe initiative and resourcefulness.