Human Traits: English Vocabulary List

consistently putting in the necessary time and energy to achieve one's goals

"She is a diligent student."

"The diligent student studied every night for weeks and earned an A on the final exam."

very determined and not giving up easily

"She is tenacious."

"Her tenacious spirit allowed her to overcome numerous obstacles on her path to success."

characterized by kindness, politeness, and a warm, welcoming demeanor

"She was gracious in defeat."

"She was gracious in defeat and congratulated the winner with a warm smile on her face."

having a lack of enthusiasm or interest

"The audience was lukewarm."

"His presentation was met with lukewarm reception, as the audience seemed unimpressed by the lack of new information."

having a plain and sometimes harsh way of expressing thoughts or opinions

"He is often blunt and honest."

"The blunt doctor told the patient that he needed to lose weight or he would die soon."

intending to cause harm or distress to others

"She spread malicious rumors."

"The malicious rumor spread quickly through the school and hurt the girl's reputation badly."

adhering to ethical principles and moral behavior

"He is an upright citizen."

"He is an upright citizen who always pays his taxes on time and obeys every law."

characterized by a lighthearted and uncontrolled demeanor

"The children felt giddy after spinning."

"The giddy children ran around the playground screaming with joy after winning the soccer game."