a substantive effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a substantive effort" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or meaningful attempt to achieve something. Example: "The team made a substantive effort to improve the project's outcomes through extensive research and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Climate advocates didn't consider it a dream piece of legislation by any means, but it was a substantive effort that would've established a cap-and-trade system for carbon emissions, imposed serious regulations on the fossil fuel industry, invested in clean energy, and more.

Vice

For nearly a decade there has been a substantive effort to develop GSIs which would reduce the production of the amyloid β peptide that accumulates in the AD patient's brain [31], [32].

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

For the most part, the idea of a 'vicious cycle' has been used post hoc to explain the relationship between dental fear and dental visiting behaviours without any substantive effort to explore the chain of relationships presupposed by the concept.

BMC Oral Health

On Vanity Fair's site, Julian Sancton makes a more substantive effort, wondering: "Is 'Funny People' Judd Apatow's 'Annie Hall'?" He cites several parallels between the two movies, and suggests that both directors were empowered by their respective studios to turn more serious as a result of the commercial success of their comedies.

The New Yorker

As foreboding as those estimates are for our future, it appears that recent events will preclude any substantive efforts at tackling this looming catastrophe.

Huffington Post

Even so, the talks have been held on several different occasions and appear to represent the most substantive effort to date to negotiate an end to the nine-year-old war, which began with an American-led campaign to overthrow the Taliban after the 9/11 attacks.

The New York Times

The formal filing of nearly 80 pages by two American advocacy groups, the Center for Constitutional Rights and the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, was the most substantive effort yet to hold the pope and the Vatican accountable in an international court for sexual abuse by priests.

The New York Times

"Maintaining a real personal or business relationship that adds value and meaning to your life takes regular and substantive effort," Adell explains.

TechCrunch

"One of the avenues that could be pursued - and I wouldn't suggest it with any degree of confidence because it will take substantive effort and money - is that, in the terms of the sales purchase agreement (SPA), the only outside entity that actually has a right of recourse if Mr Whyte defaulted on any of his commitments, is Murray.

BBC

Similarly, observers of the HEU, South Africa thought that substantive effort was expended by the Unit to secure relatively limited amounts of funding.

Health Research Policy and Systems

In our view, the Malawi government with partner support has made substantive effort to strengthen capacities of individuals and institutions that generate scientific knowledge.

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want to distinguish a superficial attempt from a more in-depth commitment to achieve results, use "a substantive effort" to describe the latter.

Common error

Avoid using "a substantive effort" to describe actions that are primarily for show or public relations. The phrase implies a genuine commitment to achieving a real result, not just creating an appearance of action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a substantive effort" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a significant or considerable undertaking, indicating a serious attempt to achieve a particular goal. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a substantive effort" is a noun phrase that signifies a significant and well-resourced attempt to achieve a specific goal. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and has neutral to formal register. It is often used to describe a serious endeavor with a considerable commitment. It's frequently found in news articles and scientific publications. When using this phrase, ensure that the described action is genuinely intended to produce meaningful results, distinguishing it from superficial or public relations oriented activities. Alternatives such as "a significant endeavor" or "a considerable undertaking" can be used depending on the specific nuance that is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant endeavor

This alternative emphasizes the ambitious and impactful nature of the effort.

a considerable undertaking

This phrase highlights the scale and complexity of the effort involved.

a meaningful attempt

This alternative focuses on the purpose and value behind the effort.

a serious endeavor

This emphasizes the dedication and commitment behind the effort.

a noteworthy attempt

This alternative emphasizes the importance and visibility of the effort.

a major initiative

This phrase suggests a large-scale and organized effort.

a determined push

This highlights the perseverance and drive behind the effort.

a vigorous campaign

This alternative implies an active and energetic effort.

a robust approach

This emphasizes the thoroughness and strength of the effort.

an ambitious project

This alternative highlights the scale and scope of the effort.

FAQs

How can I use "a substantive effort" in a sentence?

You can use "a substantive effort" to describe a significant attempt to achieve a specific goal. For instance, "The company made "a substantive effort" to reduce its carbon footprint".

What are some alternatives to "a substantive effort"?

Alternatives to "a substantive effort" include "a significant endeavor", "a considerable undertaking", or "a meaningful attempt" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "substantive effort" or "significant effort"?

Both "substantive effort" and "significant effort" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Substantive" emphasizes the depth and thoroughness of the effort, while "significant" highlights the importance or impact. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What distinguishes "a substantive effort" from a mere attempt?

"A substantive effort" implies a dedicated and well-resourced attempt, suggesting a higher level of commitment and investment than a simple or casual attempt. It also carries the connotation of being likely to produce meaningful results.