Definition

This word describes something that is done with a lot of care and attention to detail, often requiring a lot of effort and hard work.

Example

The artist's painstaking attention to detail made the painting truly remarkable.

Conversation

I finally finished my project after a lot of painstaking work.

Wow, that's impressive! It must have taken a lot of time.

It really did, but I think the effort was worth it.

Absolutely! Quality always comes from painstaking attention to detail.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

Very careful and thorough work that requires a lot of effort and attention to detail.

Example

The artist's painstaking attention to detail made the painting truly remarkable.

Conversation

I really admire your painstaking attention to detail in your projects.

Thanks! I believe it makes a big difference in the final outcome.

Absolutely! It shows how much effort you put into your work.

Root Explanation

Painstaking → It is formed from "pain" (from Old French *peine*, meaning suffering or effort) and "staking" (from the verb "stake", meaning to put forth effort or work). The word "painstaking" refers to the act of putting forth great effort or care in a task, often involving suffering or difficulty.

Memory Tip

Think of the effort and care involved in doing something that causes 'pain' or difficulty — that's why 'painstaking' means doing something with great effort.

Visually Confused Words