What does enterprising mean?
Enterprising is an adjective used to describe people — and by extension their actions, ideas, or ventures — that display initiative, resourcefulness, and a readiness to take on new or challenging undertakings. An enterprising person does not wait for opportunity to arrive; they identify it, imagine how to seize it, and act with energy and inventiveness, even where some risk is involved. The word carries a distinctly positive connotation, suggesting admirable ambition rather than recklessness. It applies equally to business contexts (an enterprising founder), creative ones (an enterprising adaptation of a novel), and everyday problem-solving (an enterprising way to raise funds). Derived from the noun 'enterprise,' which itself traces back through Old French entreprendre ('to undertake'), the word has been part of English since roughly the seventeenth century. Its close relative 'entrepreneurial' narrows the idea to business ventures, whereas enterprising remains broader, making it a versatile term of praise across many fields.
adjectiveShowing initiative, resourcefulness, and a willingness to undertake new or risky ventures. Characterized by energy and imagination in pursuing opportunities.
- (Of a person) showing initiative, imagination, and willingness to take on new projects or ventures.
- (Of an action, scheme, or venture) bold, ambitious, or ingenious in conception; requiring or displaying initiative.
"An enterprising young chef opened a small supper club that quickly became the talk of the town."
"Enterprising students turned an empty lot into a thriving community garden."
"It was an enterprising decision to launch the product ahead of its competitors."
The word 'enterprising' hides a French verb inside it — entreprendre, 'to undertake' — the same root that gave us 'entrepreneur.'
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of enterprising
Enterprising derives from the noun enterprise, which entered English from Old French entreprise, itself formed from the verb entreprendre meaning 'to undertake,' combining entre- ('between') and prendre ('to take'). The adjective enterprising arose in English around the early seventeenth century, originally denoting readiness to undertake bold or risky ventures. It shares this Latin root (prehendere, 'to take') with words such as entrepreneur, comprise, and surprise.
Related word forms
How enterprising is actually used
Generally positive in connotation, implying praise for initiative and cleverness. Common in both formal journalism and everyday speech. Occasionally used with a hint of wry admiration when describing slightly cheeky or audacious behavior ('an enterprising solution to the parking problem').
Easily confused with enterprising
Entrepreneurial relates specifically to starting and running businesses and taking financial risks, while enterprising is broader, covering any show of initiative and ingenuity in any field.