勤劳 (qín láo) is an adjective meaning 'industrious' or 'hardworking', especially in the context of consistent, diligent physical labor or daily effort. The first character 勤 means 'diligent' or 'attentive', often implying regularity and conscientiousness; the second character 劳 means 'to work' or 'labor', carrying connotations of exertion and toil. Together, they form a compound that emphasizes sustained, earnest effort—commonly used to describe people (e.g., farmers, parents, workers) whose dedication is visible in their actions and results.

This word carries positive moral weight in Chinese culture, frequently appearing in praise, educational contexts, or family values discussions. It’s more formal and commendatory than casual synonyms like 'busy' or 'tired'; it implies virtue, responsibility, and quiet perseverance—not just activity, but purposeful, honorable work. While it can describe individuals, it’s rarely used predicatively without a subject or modifier (e.g., you wouldn’t say 'He is 勤劳' alone—it usually appears as '他很勤劳' or '勤劳的人').