vigorously

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "vigorously" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that something is done with strength or energy. For example, "She vigorously defended her stance on the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Economist

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Bring a saucepan of water to the boil, then whisk the water vigorously to create a whirlpool effect.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It has the right to vigorously scrutinise and revise legislation".

The Guardian

BP says it is vigorously defending the case, arguing that it took significant steps to compensate farmers for laying the pipeline on their land and to ensure that no harm was caused.

The Guardian

The liquid and canister are chilled, shaken vigorously and the foam is poured into a glass.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Labor's failure to embrace Malcolm Turnbull's bipartisanship when it was on offer, to campaign vigorously and go to an election early on carbon pricing in late 2009 or early 2010, and the twists and turns of Labor policy since have all fuelled this fire of opposition.

The Guardian

Greece has vigorously rebutted speculation that it will declare a debt default and plunge out of the eurozone if it fails to strike a deal with lenders to keep its bankrupt economy afloat.

The Guardian - Business

The GOP and Mitt Romney, of course, vigorously deny they are waging a "war on women".

The Guardian - Opinion

Iran can be criticised vigorously – and deservedly so – but in terms of translating archaic religious ideas into government policies, our friends in Saudi Arabia are at least as bad.

The Guardian - Opinion

The structure of the Co-op Group board is being vigorously debated before a special general meeting due in early September to vote on specific reforms, which are needed in the wake of problems in its bank, in which it now owns just a 20% stake.

The Guardian - Business

Add the chopped, dry spinach and paneer and stir vigorously until hot – it should catch a little, but watch it doesn't burn.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And while he appeared relaxed, posing for photographs with volunteers, waving a Jamaican flag, and even vigorously joining a Mexican wave, his entourage quickly called for security when he was approached by journalists for a comment.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "vigorously" to add impact when describing actions requiring significant effort or energy. For instance, "The team worked vigorously to meet the deadline."

Common error

Avoid using "vigorously" excessively in highly formal writing, as it can sometimes sound overly emphatic. Opt for a more nuanced adverb depending on the specific context.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "vigorously" modifies verbs, indicating that an action is performed with intensity, energy, or force. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, showing examples where it describes how actions are carried out, such as "shaking vigorously" or "vigorously defending".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Lifestyle

16%

Business

8%

Less common in

Sport

4%

TV & Radio

2%

Tech

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vigorously" is a grammatically sound and versatile adverb that amplifies the intensity of actions. Ludwig AI supports its correct usage, showcasing its prevalence across diverse contexts, especially in news and media. While highly frequent and acceptable in most settings, it's wise to consider the formality of your writing to ensure that its emphatic nature aligns with the overall tone. Alternatives like "energetically", "forcefully", or "intensely" can provide more nuanced descriptions. Avoid overuse, particularly in very formal pieces where a more subtle descriptor might be preferable. By understanding its function, purpose, and suitable contexts, you can effectively use "vigorously" to enhance your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

energetically

Focuses on the active and lively quality of the action.

forcefully

Emphasizes the power and impact behind the action.

powerfully

Highlights the strength and effectiveness of the action.

intensely

Stresses the high degree or concentration of effort.

strenuously

Implies a great deal of effort or exertion.

actively

Indicates a proactive and engaged approach.

passionately

Suggests strong emotion and enthusiasm driving the action.

zealously

Emphasizes fervent enthusiasm and dedication.

ardently

Highlights warmth and intensity of feeling.

with great enthusiasm

Expresses the action done with noticeable and infectious excitement.

FAQs

How can I use "vigorously" in a sentence?

"Vigorously" is used to describe an action done with force, energy, or enthusiasm. For example, "The lawyer "vigorously defended" her client", or "Shake the mixture "vigorously" before serving".

What are some alternatives to "vigorously"?

Some alternatives to "vigorously" include "energetically", "forcefully", "powerfully", "intensely", or "strenuously". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say someone "vigorously opposes" something?

Yes, it is correct. "Vigorously opposes" is a common and accepted phrase, indicating a strong and energetic opposition. For example, "He "vigorously opposes" the new regulations".

What's the difference between "vigorously" and "enthusiastically"?

"Vigorously" emphasizes the energy and force behind an action, while "enthusiastically" highlights the excitement and passion. You might "vigorously defend" a position (with force) or "enthusiastically support" a candidate (with excitement).