Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
an acceptable effort
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "an acceptable effort" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a level of effort that meets a certain standard or is deemed satisfactory in a given context. Example: "While the project had its challenges, the team put in an acceptable effort to meet the deadline."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Alternative expressions(5)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
3 human-written examples
Local fatigue strength assessment based on threshold values obtained by linear-elastic notch stress calculation is commonly utilized due to its applicability to complex geometries with an acceptable effort.
Science
If during the performance researchers considered that the participant did not make an adequate effort the participant was ask to repeat the maneuver until getting an acceptable effort.
Science
If during the performance researchers considered that the participant did not make an adequate effort, the participant was asked to repeat the maneuver until an acceptable effort was obtained.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
57 human-written examples
Hence, to actually yield the possible advantages, air handling units with desiccant wheels require accurate control, which in turn calls for dynamic wheel models that can be parametrised from design data, so as to allow for virtual prototyping, and couple reliability with numerical efficiency, to deliver the numerous system-level simulations required with an acceptable computational effort.
Science
With the sketched compartment approach, a wide range of molecular start geometries may be constructed with acceptable effort.
Science
In order to run a lecture with an associated practical dedicated to modern control systems for approximately 200 students with acceptable effort, it must be organized carefully and strictly.
Science
70 (2010) 2186 2213] to prove that the MLB and HS models are strictly hyperbolic under easily verifiable conditions, that their eigenvalues interlace with the velocities of the species that form the flux vector (so the velocities are good starting values for a root finder), and that the corresponding eigenvectors can be calculated with acceptable effort.
Force × Cycle Rate (FCR) or time-weighted average percent maximum acceptable effort (TWA-%MAE) for these short duration tasks can be used for guidance.
The optimization of the latter is often the bottleneck of the entire development process and restricts the number of parameters that can be tested with acceptable effort.
Science
Maneuvers were repeated to obtain three acceptable curves; we stored data from each technically acceptable effort following established guidelines (American Thoracic Society 1995).
Manoeuvres are performed in triplicate, although up to five forced expiratory manoeuvres are obtained in an effort to achieve three acceptable efforts.
Science
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider the audience and purpose. In formal settings, more precise terms like 'sufficient contribution' might be preferable, while 'a decent try' works in informal contexts.
Common error
Avoid using "an acceptable effort" in contexts that demand excellence or outstanding performance. The phrase implies a minimum standard has been met, which might not be appropriate when striving for exceptional results.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "an acceptable effort" functions as a noun phrase, where "acceptable" modifies the noun "effort". It generally describes a level of exertion or input that meets a certain standard or requirement. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is correct and usable in written English.
Frequent in
Science
60%
News & Media
20%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Wiki
5%
Encyclopedias
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "an acceptable effort" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a level of exertion that meets a certain standard. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most commonly found in scientific and news contexts, and while it is generally neutral, more formal alternatives might be preferred in specific situations. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what determines acceptability to avoid ambiguity.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
a satisfactory attempt
Replaces 'acceptable' with 'satisfactory', emphasizing that the effort meets a minimum requirement.
a reasonable endeavor
Substitutes 'effort' with 'endeavor', suggesting a serious and determined attempt that is within reasonable bounds.
a sufficient contribution
Focuses on the 'contribution' aspect, implying that the effort was enough to make a difference.
a passable attempt
Replaces 'acceptable' with 'passable', implying that the effort was just good enough to be considered acceptable.
an adequate performance
Shifts the focus to the outcome of the effort, describing it as 'adequate'.
a competent undertaking
Replaces 'effort' with 'undertaking', highlighting that the entire action was carried out competently.
a tolerable exertion
Implies that the amount of effort was within a limit and could be tolerated.
a creditable showing
Focuses on how the effort presents itself, implying it's worthy of some praise or respect.
a fair shot
Highlights the attempt to make reasonable attempt or input.
a decent try
Using more informal diction, 'try' emphasizes the act of attempting something, and 'decent' indicates it was good enough.
FAQs
How can I use "an acceptable effort" in a sentence?
You can use "an acceptable effort" to describe a situation where the level of effort exerted meets a certain standard or is deemed satisfactory. For example, "While the project had its challenges, the team put in "an acceptable effort" to meet the deadline."
What can I say instead of "an acceptable effort"?
You can use alternatives like "a satisfactory attempt", "a reasonable endeavor", or "a sufficient contribution" depending on the context.
Which is correct, "an acceptable effort" or "a acceptable effort"?
"An acceptable effort" is correct. The article "an" is used because the word "acceptable" begins with a vowel sound.
Is "an acceptable effort" formal or informal?
"An acceptable effort" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal settings, you might consider more precise alternatives like "a sufficient contribution".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
4.3/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested