ability to make an earnest

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to make an earnest" is not entirely correct in standard English usage.
It could be used in contexts discussing someone's capacity to create a sincere or serious commitment, but it may require additional context for clarity. Example: "Her ability to make an earnest effort in her studies impressed her teachers."

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But making sure that painful, hate-filled future never comes to pass is up to the Clinton campaign now, and its ability to make an earnest and heartfelt appeal to the future of the Democratic party.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Born in a rural town in upstate New York, Dove was long torn by his ability to make a living as a commercial illustrator in Manhattan and his earnest but failed attempts at farming.

Los Angeles Times

It ultimately affects my ability to make a living".

The New York Times

"Feeling that I have the ability to make a difference.

The Guardian

The door is always open to you should you ever wish to make an earnest attempt to understand that".

Independent

Crenshaw, a Texas Republican headed to Congress, used the moment to make an earnest plea for unity.

The New York Times

I have an ability to make people examine certain circumstances".

The Guardian - Film

It was a testament to Mr. Graves's earnest, unhammy ability to make fun of himself that after decades of playing square he-men and straitlaced authority figures, he was perhaps best known to younger audiences for a deadpan line in "Airplane!" ("Joey, do you like movies about gladiators?") and one from a memorable Geico car insurance commercial ("I was one lucky woman").

The New York Times - Arts

He has also demonstrated an ability to make tough decisions.

The New Yorker

Rather, he has a natural ability to make actors funnier.

The New Yorker

You have the ability to make art.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's dedication, consider using more common alternatives like "ability to make a sincere effort" or "capacity for genuine commitment" for improved clarity.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase in casual contexts. It can sound stilted or overly formal. Opt for simpler language like "sincere effort" or "genuine attempt" in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to make an earnest" functions as a noun phrase that describes a capacity or skill. It signifies the potential or capability to perform an action with sincerity and seriousness. Ludwig indicates this phrase is grammatically acceptable, though potentially requiring additional context for optimal clarity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ability to make an earnest" refers to the capacity to act with sincerity and dedication. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig AI suggests it's less common and might benefit from additional context for clarity. It's most suitable for formal writing and professional settings, though simpler alternatives like "capacity for genuine effort" are often preferred for everyday use. Examples on Ludwig show its application across various sources, including news, wiki, and scientific contexts. Remember to consider the tone and clarity of your writing when using this phrase, and explore alternative options to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capability to perform sincerely

Replaces "ability" with "capability" and rephrases "make an earnest" to "perform sincerely", concentrating on genuine execution.

capacity for genuine effort

Replaces "ability" with "capacity" and "earnest" with "genuine effort", emphasizing potential rather than demonstrated skill.

power to act with sincerity

Substitutes "ability" with "power" and rewords "make an earnest" to "act with sincerity", focusing on the strength to be genuine.

skill in sincere undertaking

Substitutes "ability" with "skill" and rephrases "make an earnest" to "sincere undertaking", focusing on accomplished competence.

talent for authentic engagement

Swaps "ability" with "talent" and converts "make an earnest" to "authentic engagement", focusing on a natural gift for sincere interaction.

facility with heartfelt expression

Replaces "ability" with "facility" and rephrases "make an earnest" to "heartfelt expression", focusing on ease of genuine communication.

aptitude for heartfelt endeavor

Replaces "ability" with "aptitude" and transforms "make an earnest" into "heartfelt endeavor", highlighting a natural inclination.

knack for serious commitment

Replaces "ability" with "knack" and rephrases "make an earnest" to "serious commitment", suggesting an inherent aptitude for dedication.

potential for earnest action

Replaces "ability to make" with "potential for" and highlights the possibility of serious and sincere action.

resourcefulness in dedicated pursuit

Changes "ability" to "resourcefulness" and transforms "make an earnest" into "dedicated pursuit", emphasizing clever use of available means.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "ability to make an earnest"?

You can use alternatives such as "capacity for genuine effort", "skill in sincere undertaking", or "aptitude for heartfelt endeavor" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "ability to make an earnest" grammatically correct?

While not incorrect, the phrase "ability to make an earnest" is less common than alternatives. Ludwig AI suggests it might require additional context for complete clarity. Simpler phrases like "ability to make a sincere effort" are often preferred.

What's the difference between "ability to make an earnest" and "ability to make a sincere" effort?

"Ability to make an earnest" effort is more formal and emphasizes the genuine nature of the attempt. "Ability to make a sincere" effort is similar, but slightly more common and easily understood.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "ability to make an earnest"?

This phrase is suitable for formal writing where you want to highlight the genuine and serious nature of someone's capability. However, consider whether simpler alternatives like "capacity for genuine effort" would be clearer and more effective.