adjective / noun

intensive

in-TEN-siv/ɪnˈtensɪv/

Concentrating substantial effort within a limited scope or period.

The scientist conducts intensive research, examining samples through a microscope.

A Black woman scientist concentrates at a microscope with a small tray of samples.

Etymology

inLatintoward

+tensLatinto stretch, strain

+iveLatincharacterized by

The roots evoke stretching or straining toward something, with attention directed toward it. Through the sense “intense” or “fervent,” intensive describes effort, attention, or resources applied in a concentrated way.

In context

GC Videography Fellows41:18

much of that value is redistributed uh to those capitalists who employ very little labor but a lot of capital. So capital intensive industries effectively get uh subsidized

David Harvey Lecture 5 | Use Values: The Production of Wants, Needs and Desires

More examples

The patient needs intensive treatment for the next few days.
She signs up for a weekend writing intensive.
The dancers attend two summer intensives before the audition.

Forms

intensive · intensives

intensively adverb — With concentrated effort or close attention.

Similar words

concentrated: Emphasizes gathering effort together rather than requiring substantial effort.
rigorous: Emphasizes strict standards and thoroughness, not concentrated effort.