Arduous
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition:
Involving or requiring a lot of effort; very difficult and tiring.
Example Sentences:
The hikers faced an arduous climb up the steep mountain.
Completing the project was an arduous task that took months of hard work.
Training for the marathon proved to be an arduous but rewarding experience.
How “Arduous” May Appear on the GED RLA Exam
The word “arduous” means “tough and exhausting” which describes something that takes serious effort to accomplish. It often appears in narratives, historical accounts, and articles about personal or group challenges.
Example 1: Vocabulary in Context
“Crossing the desert was an arduous journey that tested the travelers’ endurance.”
Question:
What does arduous most likely mean in this sentence?
A. Quick and easy
B. Long and difficult
C. Fun and relaxing
D. Slow but safe
Correct Answer: B. Long and difficult
Example 2: Historical Passage
“Building the transcontinental railroad was an arduous task, requiring thousands of workers and years of labor.”
Question:
Why does the author call the task arduous?
A. It was easy for the workers
B. It took little time and effort
C. It demanded great effort and was physically challenging
D. It was completed without any problems
Correct Answer: C. It demanded great effort and was physically challenging
Example 3: Analyzing Author’s Tone
“The author describes the expedition as arduous, highlighting the team’s perseverance through extreme weather and limited supplies.”
Question:
What does the use of arduous reveal about the author’s tone?
A. The author admires the team’s endurance
B. The author is angry with the team
C. The author finds the journey unimportant
D. The author believes the journey was short
Correct Answer: A. The author admires the team’s endurance
Related GED Vocabulary:
Demanding
Laborious
Strenuous
Looking to enhance your vocabulary for the GED RLA?
Continue building your vocabulary with our GED RLA Vocab: 110 Academic Words List!
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