a personal endeavour

USAGE SUMMARY

"a personal endeavour" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to something somebody is doing for their own gain or to reach a personal goal. For example: "This project is a personal endeavour of mine to build an organization that supports disadvantaged youth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"It is quite a personal endeavour," he explains.

The Guardian

But for Sansom, the novel was, and is, a personal endeavour.

The Guardian

Its chief executive, Nathan Vass, is a former head of corporate communications for AGL and former group manager for corporate affairs at Fortescue Metals but said the project was a personal endeavour and he was "not working for or with anyone else or any organisation".

The Guardian

And although Spider-Man was a big-budget game for the time, released via the world's largest publisher, it feels to me much more a personal endeavour than the superhero games of now.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

While fetishes are an intrinsically personal endeavour, BRKFST Magazine presents a platform to express and showcase enthusiasts amongst likeminded creatives to an openminded market.

Vice

For Toffler, Engström and Selye, like Halliday and others before them, a combination of personal endeavour and political reform was required to manage the diverse threats to human and animal health, and indeed to the balance of the environment and the harmony of the cosmos, inherent in modern western lifestyles.

History of the Human Sciences

In later years he established a reputation for stories of men and women (mostly British) pitting their determination and courage in exploits of personal endeavour - a long-time interest of ITN.

The Guardian

In the vanguard of this Kiwi challenge is McCullum, a leader of rare genius, who encapsulates in his personal endeavour and captaincy what is called the Kiwi spirit.

The Guardian - Sport

Roosevelt's tenure at Albany was characterised by a commitment to show that, contrary to deep-rooted national belief in personal endeavour, only government could solve the greatest problems that afflicted society.

Independent

"The majority of success stories now are not just about personal endeavour.

The Guardian - Sport

These people are certainly not "kids" – indeed, many of the recipients of unearned inheritances (largely created by property inflation, not personal endeavour) will be grandparents themselves.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a project that is deeply connected to your identity or values, use "a personal endeavour" to highlight the intrinsic motivation.

Common error

Avoid using "a personal endeavour" in highly formal business or academic contexts where a more objective or professional term might be more appropriate. Consider alternatives like "project" or "initiative" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a personal endeavour" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It describes an activity or project undertaken by an individual, often for self-fulfillment or development, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

17%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a personal endeavour" is a noun phrase used to describe an activity undertaken for personal satisfaction or growth. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. While its register is generally neutral, it may be more appropriate for informal or narrative contexts than highly formal ones. Related phrases include "an individual pursuit" and "a self-motivated project". When using the phrase, consider the context and ensure it aligns with the intended meaning of individual motivation and self-fulfillment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an individual pursuit

Emphasizes the solitary nature of the undertaking.

a private undertaking

Highlights the confidential or secluded aspect of the project.

a self-motivated project

Focuses on the internal drive behind the activity.

a labor of love

Suggests the endeavor is driven by passion and enjoyment.

a pet project

Implies a special and favored undertaking.

an independent enterprise

Highlights the autonomous and self-reliant nature of the work.

a self-imposed task

Emphasizes the voluntary nature of the undertaking.

a homegrown initiative

Implies the endeavour is locally sourced and developed.

a one-man show

Focuses on the single-handed execution of the project.

a self-started venture

Highlights the initiative and independence in beginning the project.

FAQs

How can I use "a personal endeavour" in a sentence?

You can use "a personal endeavour" to describe a project or activity undertaken for personal satisfaction or growth, such as, "Writing this novel is "a personal endeavour" that allows me to explore my creativity".

What is the difference between "a personal endeavour" and "a professional undertaking"?

"A personal endeavour" is typically driven by personal interest and satisfaction, while "a professional undertaking" is usually aimed at achieving career goals or financial rewards.

What are some alternatives to "a personal endeavour"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "an individual pursuit", "a private undertaking", or "a self-motivated project" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "a personal endeavour" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "a personal endeavour" might be more suitable for informal or narrative writing. In formal contexts, consider using more neutral terms like "project" or "initiative".