certain effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "certain effort" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a specific level or type of effort that is required or expected in a given context. Example: "To achieve success in this project, we need to put in a certain effort to meet our deadlines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

It takes a certain effort to suck the life out of "Tosca".

The New Yorker

To travel to the particular somewhere Debussy wants, a certain effort against reluctance is needed.

The New York Times - Arts

Having lifted the first weight, the subject is "set" for a certain effort on the next try.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Rock wall retreat measurement on such a relief is associated with all types of problems because a certain effort has to be put into the measurement equipment design.

CATENA

Most of these effects are meant to work on us, the readers, almost subconsciously, but they require a certain effort nonetheless.

The New York Times - Magazine

Today it takes a certain effort to comprehend what made his sculptures so popular, but the whole story of his career, as related by the exhibition "John Rogers: American Stories" at the New-York Historical Society, is fascinating.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

To be certain, efforts to inhabit the surroundings of their subjects can go awry.

The New York Times

§ 561.403 Facilitation of certain efforts, activities, or transactions by foreign financial institutions.

Cornell University

Furthermore, banks should prioritize certain efforts in order to begin to realize the benefits of this transition early on.

Columbia University

Moreover, at least one recent study suggests that certain efforts to correct false impressions about the dangers of vaccines actually make people less likely to get vaccinated.

The New Yorker

The Legislature has required that some of that money be spent on certain efforts, like reducing class sizes, and in particularly needy schools.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "certain effort", ensure the context clarifies the nature or degree of effort required. For example, specify whether it's a sustained, focused, or specialized effort.

Common error

Avoid using "certain effort" without providing context. It can sound vague. Instead, specify the kind of effort needed, such as "concerted effort" or "focused effort", to provide more clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain effort" functions as a noun phrase, indicating a specific or defined amount of exertion or endeavor required to achieve a particular goal. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "certain effort" is a grammatically sound and neutrally registered expression used to denote a specific level of exertion needed for a task. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, although specifying the kind of effort generally improves clarity. While uncommon, the phrase appears in reliable sources like The New York Times and academic publications. Alternatives like "specific endeavor" may offer a more precise or formal tone. Remember to provide context when using "certain effort" to enhance understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

specific endeavor

Replaces "effort" with a more formal term, emphasizing a particular undertaking.

particular attempt

Substitutes "effort" with "attempt", highlighting a specific try or endeavor.

definite exertion

Uses "exertion" to denote the physical or mental energy applied.

determined endeavor

Emphasizes resolve and purpose in the effort being made.

targeted application

Highlights the focused and intentional use of effort.

precise action

Emphasizes exactness and intentionality in the action taken, differing from just effort.

measured commitment

Suggests a controlled and planned dedication of resources or energy.

calculated input

Focuses on the strategic and deliberate contribution of effort.

dedicated input

Emphasizes the focus and commitment of effort.

focused exertion

Combines "focused" and "exertion" to highlight concentrated energy.

FAQs

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

You can use "certain effort" to describe the level of dedication needed for a task. For example, "Achieving this goal requires a certain effort and dedication from everyone involved."

What phrases are similar to "certain effort"?

Alternatives to "certain effort" include "specific endeavor", "particular attempt", or "definite exertion" depending on the context.

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

Both "certain effort" and "significant effort" are correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Certain effort" implies a specific, perhaps known, level of effort. "Significant effort" emphasizes the magnitude of the effort needed.

What's the difference between "certain effort" and "concerted effort"?

"Certain effort" refers to a specific amount of effort. "Concerted effort" implies a combined and coordinated effort from multiple parties. Using "concerted effort" suggests cooperation towards a common goal.