effort
Energy and work applied toward achieving something.
Word facts
Definition
Effort is the physical or mental energy used to do something. It implies trying hard and working earnestly toward a goal, even when the task is difficult.
Usage: Effort is often used with verbs like 'make', 'put in', or 'require'. An effort is a countable attempt; effort (uncountable) is the quality of working hard.
Example sentences
- 1
She put a great deal of effort into preparing for the exam.
- 2
With enough effort, almost any skill can be learned.
- 3
The team's combined effort produced an outstanding result.
Word family
From Old French effort, from efforcer ('to force'), from Latin ex- ('out') + fortis ('strong'). Effort is strength pushed outward into an action.
Effort has 'fort' — think of a fort you have to push through with strength. Effort is that push.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What does it mean to make an effort?
To make an effort means to try seriously, even when the task is not easy.
What is the adjective form of effort?
Effortless means requiring no effort. Effortful means requiring great effort.