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

Rowe and Novak were first photographed at events together in late 2024 While neither have posted about their relationship, Novak and Rowe were photographed attending a number of industry events together. —Rebecca Aizin, People.com, 29 Apr. 2025

This data tracks with broader industry trends According to the National Restaurant Association, just 18% of restaurant operators reported higher same-store sales in February 2025 compared to the previous year — down sharply from 51% in January. —Catherine Baab, Quartz, 29 Apr. 2025

More mild-mannered than take-charge showman, Ricks prefers to take an under-the-radar approach to dominating the industry. —Alice Park, Time, 17 Apr. 2025

If influencers were primarily men, it would be seen as an innovative new career that’s taken over the advertising industry. —Caitlin Brody, Glamour, 17 Apr. 2025