arduous

What does “arduous” mean?

adjective.involving or requiring strenuous effort; difficult and tiring.

SAT Usage

This term often appears in passages discussing challenges, perseverance, or the nature of work in various contexts, such as literature or history. It emphasizes not just difficulty but also the sustained effort required to overcome obstacles, distinguishing it from similar words like "challenging," which may not convey the same level of exhaustion or intensity.

Common Confusions

Arduous implies a demanding and exhausting effort over time, while challenging usually suggests difficulty that may not require sustained exertion or intense struggle.

Example Sentences

• The climb was arduous, but the summit view was worth it.

• Climbing the mountain was an arduous journey that tested both their physical endurance and mental resilience at every turn.