Tedious Meaning and Definition
Tedious
Pronunciation
/ˈtiːdiəs/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Tedious refers to something that is boring, time-consuming, and often repetitive, requiring a great deal of effort or endurance.
Examples
1. “The tedious task of data entry took hours to complete.”
2. “She found the lecture to be tedious and struggled to stay awake.”
Synonyms
1. Boring
2. Dull
3. Tedious
Antonyms
1. Engaging
2. Exciting
3. Thrilling
Additional Information
Tedious tasks can be mentally and physically draining, leading to decreased productivity and motivation. Breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks can help make them less tedious. Additionally, finding ways to make tasks more engaging, such as listening to music or working with a partner, can also help alleviate the feeling of tediousness.
In everyday life, people often encounter tedious tasks, such as household chores, paperwork, or long commutes. However, with the right mindset and strategies, it is possible to make these tasks more bearable and even find ways to enjoy them. For example, listening to a favorite podcast or audiobook can make a long commute more enjoyable, while turning household chores into a game or competition can make them more engaging.
Furthermore, recognizing the importance of tedious tasks can also help make them more manageable. For instance, understanding that data entry is crucial for a business’s success can make the task more meaningful and less tedious. Similarly, acknowledging the benefits of exercise, such as improved physical and mental health, can make the task of going to the gym less daunting.
Etymology
The word “tedious” has its roots in the 15th century Latin word “taedium,” meaning “weariness” or “boredom.” Over time, the word evolved into Middle English as “tedius,” and eventually became the modern English word “tedious.”
Usage Notes
The word “tedious” can be used in various contexts to describe a range of experiences, from mundane tasks to unexciting events. When using the word, it’s essential to consider the tone and audience to ensure accurate communication.
Cultural References
The concept of tediousness has been explored in various works of literature and art, such as in the novel “The Metamorphosis” by Franz Kafka, where the protagonist’s transformation into a bug is a metaphor for the tediousness of modern life.
Idiomatic Expressions
Some common idiomatic expressions that include the word “tedious” include “tedious task,” “tedious journey,” and “tedious conversation.”
Collocations
Common word combinations with “tedious” include “tedious task,” “tedious job,” and “tedious work.”
Frequency of Use
The word “tedious” is moderately common in modern language, with a frequency of use similar to words like “boring” and “dull.”
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings of the word “tedious” include “tedius,” “tediuos,” and “tediuos.”