The phrase "a lackluster effort" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an effort that is uninspired, mediocre, or lacking in enthusiasm or quality.
Example: "The team's performance in the project was disappointing; it was clearly a lackluster effort that did not meet expectations."
Alternatives: "an uninspired attempt" or "a mediocre performance."
The message had been pounded into the MetroStars during practice, that after a lackluster effort a week ago they were still readying for their biggest game of the year and had much to play for.
Fund-raising is an immediate priority, after a lackluster effort in the primary.
They were angry with themselves for letting a game slip away because of a lackluster effort.
What passes for a lackluster effort from a horse that has won 12 of 19 lifetime races?
Although we dug ourselves a hole with a lackluster effort in the first three quarters, credit has to be given to Loyola for taking advantage of our mistakes.
Aubin was especially important in the third period as the Penguins concluded the game with a lackluster effort, allowing the Islanders to make the score respectable.
Indeed, his race on Sunday at the Hockenheimring was somewhat emblematic of his whole Masters experience, with a poor qualifying effort followed by a lackluster drive in the race.
General Manager Brian MacLellan hinted at some frustration with what can feel like an occasionally lackluster effort from the 26-year-old.
But all the same, they must have been rattled a little by their lackluster effort against the Swiss on Thursday, a 3-2 shootout victory that left them a point behind the United States, 6-5, in the Group A standings.
The lack of playing time for Lillard was attributed to internal disputes caused by "lackluster effort and a prideful attitude"; the Chicago Defender offered a different explanation, accusing Chevigny of racism towards Lillard.
Jordan, who played an average of 38.3 minutes in his first three games with the Wizards (2-2), had had one exceptional game -- scoring 31 in the victory over Atlanta -- and a few lackluster efforts.
