a supreme effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a supreme effort" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an extraordinary or exceptional level of effort put into a task or endeavor. Example: "To complete the marathon, she made a supreme effort, pushing through the pain and fatigue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

It took a supreme effort and a late 3-pointer by Dwyane Wade to repel the comeback.

The New York Times - Sports

It would have taken a supreme effort from Tuel, who has that sort of potential, to lift the Cougars to 6-6.

The New York Times

He added, "I asked that the confrontation be minimized as much as possible and that a supreme effort be made to avoid harming anyone".

The New York Times

Nonetheless, by exerting a supreme effort, the Romans raised their war establishment to the highest total yet attained and sent a strong field army against each Carthaginian leader.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It took a supreme effort to stop thinking and begin enjoying the most amazing sporting competition I had ever been a part of.

The New York Times

It takes a supreme effort not to observe the fallout from England's rugby World Cup humiliation through the prism of Monty Python's Life of Brian.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Nor will we ever know whether, as a result of this supreme effort, their souls were able to sense, if only for a moment, just what it feels like to be Melissa Gilbert.

The New Yorker

Managers who can motivate supreme effort in a machine-dominated environment are going to be valuable.

The New York Times

It was telling that after Sunday's supreme effort, Shumpert posted a Twitter message thanking Donnie Walsh, the former team president, "for giving me a chance".

The New York Times

Sharapova displayed the greater vocal range - she has a regular shriek, a triumphant I-know-this-point-is-mine shriek, and a special shriek for a shot she has no real right to return, a really tough one that requires supreme effort.

The Guardian

Then in 1936, when the German Ambassador Von Hoesch died, I said to myself, that on behalf of Germany one should make one last supreme effort to come to a good understanding with England.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a supreme effort" to emphasize the exceptional level of dedication and energy invested in a particular task. For example, "Climbing Mount Everest required a supreme effort from every member of the team."

Common error

Avoid using "a supreme effort" to describe ordinary tasks. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the level of exertion is truly exceptional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a supreme effort" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement in a sentence. It describes an action or undertaking requiring an exceptional amount of energy, dedication, or will. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in diverse contexts, from sports to political endeavors.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Academia

17%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a supreme effort" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signifies an exceptional level of dedication and energy. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is widely employed across various domains, particularly in news and media, academia, and formal business contexts. While versatile, it's best reserved for situations where the exertion is truly extraordinary to avoid diluting its impact. Alternatives like "an extraordinary attempt" or "a herculean task" can provide similar emphasis while offering nuanced variations. Overall, understanding the appropriate context ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a maximum exertion

Highlights the physical or mental energy expended.

an all-out push

Suggests a final, comprehensive effort to achieve a goal.

a heroic effort

Highlights the courage and selflessness involved in the effort.

an extraordinary attempt

Highlights the exceptional quality of the attempt made.

a determined endeavor

Emphasizes the resoluteness and purpose behind the effort.

a valiant struggle

Focuses on the courage and determination displayed during a difficult situation.

a considerable application

Emphasizes the dedicated focus and hard work applied.

a monumental endeavor

Emphasizes the large-scale and challenging nature of the undertaking.

a prodigious undertaking

Stresses the remarkable and impressive nature of the effort.

a herculean task

Draws a parallel to the strength and effort required by the mythological Hercules.

FAQs

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

You can use "a supreme effort" to describe an action that requires maximum dedication and energy. For instance, "Winning the championship required "a supreme effort" from the entire team".

What are some alternatives to "a supreme effort"?

Alternatives include "a monumental endeavor", "an extraordinary attempt", or "a herculean task", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a supreme effort of will"?

While "a supreme effort" often implies the exertion of willpower, specifying "a supreme effort of will" can emphasize the mental fortitude required, making it appropriate in certain contexts. Otherwise alternatives like "great willpower" can be more concise.

When is it appropriate to use "a supreme effort" versus "a great effort"?

"A supreme effort" implies a level of exertion that is above and beyond what is normally required, while "a great effort" simply indicates a significant amount of work. Use "a supreme effort" when the situation demands truly exceptional dedication.