B1verb 3K

Toil

UK //tɔɪl// US //tɔɪl// Pronunciation

Definition

To work extremely hard, usually with fatigue.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To work very hard or struggle.

Examples

• She had toiling hours on the farm from dawn to dusk.
• He toiled to finish the project before the deadline.
• The workers toiled under harsh conditions for their families.
• After toiling all day, she finally completed her assignment.
• They toiled together as a team to achieve their goal.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts, often emphasizes hard work or effort over a long period.

Grammar pattern

toil + subject + object

Memory hint

Toil sounds like 'coil' - imagine coiling up after a long day of hard work.

Collocations

• toil away
• toil in the fields
• toil for success

Synonyms

• labor
• strive
• work hard
• grind
• exert

Antonyms

• rest
• idle
• relax

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'boil' in pronunciation.
• Using it in a context where less effort is implied.
• Misunderstanding it as only physical labor.