Synonyms of industry

industry

noun

ˈin-(ˌ)də-strē 

as in effort

attentive and persistent effort

he isn't the smartest kid in class, but he gets the best grades by determined industry

Synonyms & Similar Words

• effort
• diligence
• industriousness
• application
• persistence
• assiduity
• assiduousness
• attention
• concentration
• effortfulness
• attentiveness
• sedulity
• care
• sedulousness
• tenacity
• perseverance
• doggedness
• pains
• painstaking
• trouble
• bother
• tirelessness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• negligence
• carelessness
• idleness
• laziness
• slackness
• indolence

Synonym Chooser

How is the word industry distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of industry are business, commerce, trade, and traffic. While all these words mean "activity concerned with the supplying and distribution of commodities," industry applies to the producing of commodities, especially by manufacturing or processing, usually on a large scale.

When might business be a better fit than industry?

While the synonyms business and industry are close in meaning, business may be an inclusive term but specifically designates the activities of those engaged in the purchase or sale of commodities or in related financial transactions.

How do commerce and trade relate to one another, in the sense of industry?

Both commerce and trade imply the exchange and transportation of commodities.

When could traffic be used to replace industry?

The meanings of traffic and industry largely overlap; however, traffic applies to the operation and functioning of public carriers of goods and persons.

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of industry

Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history. —Martin J. Kernan, Scientific American, 26 Sep. 2025

Many in the cookware industry, however, say nonstick pots and pans carry no risk of harm when manufactured responsibly. —Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 26 Sep. 2025

Even for an industry veteran like Regina Hall, who plays a revolutionary tasked with overseeing Willa’s protection, the concept of shooting Paul Thomas Anderson’s largest, most expensive endeavor yet was daunting. —Seija Rankin, HollywoodReporter, 26 Sep. 2025

It should be noted that, despite these industries being essential, their employees will not be paid while the government continues its shutdown. —Jordan Green, Nashville Tennessean, 26 Sep. 2025