busy 1 of 2

Definition of busynext
1
2
3

busy

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word busy different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of busy are assiduous, diligent, industrious, and sedulous. While all these words mean "actively engaged or occupied," busy chiefly stresses activity as opposed to idleness or leisure.

too busy to spend time with the children

When would assiduous be a good substitute for busy?

While in some cases nearly identical to busy, assiduous stresses careful and unremitting application.

assiduous practice

In what contexts can diligent take the place of busy?

The words diligent and busy can be used in similar contexts, but diligent suggests earnest application to some specific object or pursuit.

very diligent in her pursuit of a degree

Where would industrious be a reasonable alternative to busy?

The synonyms industrious and busy are sometimes interchangeable, but industrious implies characteristic or habitual devotion to work.

industrious employees

When could sedulous be used to replace busy?

The words sedulous and busy are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sedulous implies painstaking and persevering application.

a sedulous investigation of the murder

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of busy
Adjective
SafeTravel Iceland has warned that large numbers of visitors are expected in western Iceland, with roads, parking areas, restaurants and public spaces likely to be very busy. David Nikel, Forbes.com, 16 May 2026 Nothing is more anti-transit than shutting down the country’s busiest commuter rail system in a quest to raise costs for taxpayers and fares for passengers. Editorial Board, Washington Post, 16 May 2026
Verb
Emma shook her head and busied herself with picking up her waders. Literary Hub, 26 Feb. 2026 While the former tracks profits and expectations, the latter busies itself with tangible stuff, from jobs and wages to GDP. Tristan Bove, Fortune, 24 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for busy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for busy
Adjective
  • The result is a fiery and impassioned offering that finds the veteran fully engaged and intent on proving no chinks have been left in his armor despite his tenuous back-and-forth with his Compton counterpart.
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 15 May 2026
  • The debate, the back and forth, the unsolicited tags—that is where trust is built in public, where brand affinity becomes visible and where your most engaged audience shows themselves to you.
    Rhea Karo, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
Adjective
  • Along my walkway and all over my neighborhood, nasturtium flowers are opening like bright orange suns, fragrant lavender is attracting buzzing bees, and rosemary bushes are beginning to brighten with baby blue flowers.
    Senior Food Editor, Los Angeles Times, 3 May 2026
  • Drawing inspiration from both family recipes and a buzzing street food culture, Ngon’s dishes are vibrant and packed with flavor.
    Nathanael Gassett, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Despite speculation, there has been no hard evidence to suggest the Celtics will look to trade Jaylen Brown (who likely would interest the Heat).
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 19 May 2026
  • That agenda should interest Washington.
    Daniel Benaim, Time, 18 May 2026
Adjective
  • There’s yet another reason to be diligent with your daily SPF.
    Kara Nesvig, Allure, 14 May 2026
  • In the end, after a monthslong investigation and diligent forensic work, partial remains of 70 of the 110 victims were identified and returned to family members who, to this day, carry the pain of that day in 1996.
    Hank Tester, CBS News, 12 May 2026
Adjective
  • Too, vibrant luggage tags can help identify which bags are yours at TSA.
    Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 17 May 2026
  • Naggoo Printed Split Maxi Dress with Pockets With a stretchy wrinkle-free fabric, vibrant print, chic side slit, and two side pockets, this summery dress checks every box for style and comfort.
    Mia Huelsbeck, PEOPLE, 16 May 2026
Adjective
  • Sixty-three percent of Glamour readers polled think lurking is annoying and also kind of creepy.
    Sam Reed, Glamour, 18 May 2026
  • For instance, many partners have small gripes or annoyances with habits that are annoying at worst, but far from an outright red flag — like a partner that chews somewhat loudly, leaves cabinet doors open or hums constantly while working.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 17 May 2026
Verb
  • House members who occupy safe seats have fewer incentives to compromise or work across the aisle.
    Ashley Wu, New York Times, 18 May 2026
  • Whole Foods opening in Newport Beach Whole Foods is opening a second store in Newport Beach, claiming the spot occupied by a Ralphs grocery store at Westcliff Plaza.
    Samantha Gowen, Oc Register, 18 May 2026
Adjective
  • Here are three key themes from our discussion that every leader needs to understand to foster a thriving workplace culture.
    Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 17 May 2026
  • Instead, Hanalei town is rooted in Kauai's history and lifestyle as a former thriving agricultural hub.
    Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 17 May 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Busy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/busy. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on busy

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster