diligence
UK: ˈdɪlɪdʒəns | US: ˈdɪlədʒəns
n. careful and persistent work or effort
n. (archaic) attention to detail; thoroughness
The word "diligence" traces back to Latin diligentia, derived from diligere ("to choose, love, or value highly"). The root dili- (from dis- "apart" + legere "to choose") originally implied "selecting with care." Over time, the sense evolved to emphasize the attentiveness and persistence required for such careful selection, eventually settling into its modern meaning of "steady effort." The suffix -gence (via Old French -gence) marks it as a noun denoting a quality or state.
Her diligence in studying paid off with top grades.
The project was completed ahead of schedule due to the team's diligence.
Historical scribes worked with remarkable diligence to preserve manuscripts.
Lack of diligence in proofreading led to embarrassing typos.
The artisan’s diligence ensured every detail of the sculpture was perfect.