backbreaking
/ˈbækˌbreɪkɪŋ/
ADJECTIVE
1. Extremely physically exhausting
Requiring so much physical effort, strength, or endurance that it causes extreme tiredness or bodily strain.
1.1. Strenuous physical labor
Describes work or labor that demands intense physical effort, prolonged exertion, and considerable bodily strength.
Synonyms
- arduous
- laborious
- strenuous
- grueling
- gruelling
- exhausting
- taxing
- toilsome
- punishing
- backbreaking
Antonyms
Examples
- The farmers endured backbreaking labor while harvesting crops under the scorching sun.
- Construction workers performed exhausting tasks while lifting heavy materials all day.
- The miners spent years doing grueling work deep underground.
- Building the road through the mountains required strenuous physical effort.
Related Words
- physical exertion
- heavy lifting
- manual labor
- drudgery
- fatigue
- overexertion
- hard work
- physical strain
- exhaustion
1.2. Extremely demanding and difficult tasks
Describes tasks, activities, or challenges that require exceptional effort, endurance, and determination to complete.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- The hikers faced a backbreaking climb up the steep mountain trail.
- Completing the restoration project was a demanding undertaking for the small team.
- The expedition involved an extremely arduous journey across the desert.
- The rescue operation required a herculean effort from everyone involved.