endeavour

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "endeavour" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an attempt or effort to achieve something, often in a formal or literary context. Example: "We will endeavour to complete the project by the end of the month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It has always been tricky for Messrs Cameron and Clegg to present themselves as united in an endeavour to put the country right while at the same advertising their differences in order to reassure the blue and yellow tribes that they are not betraying their respective party's fundamental beliefs.

The Guardian - Opinion

Climate sceptics seek not only to cast doubt on the science but also to convince us we are alone in our endeavour.

The Guardian

Tottenham's Gylfi Sigurdsson runs the midfield while the youngsters Eggert Jonsson of Wolves and Ajax's Kolbeinn Sigborsson add pace and guile where there was only endeavour.

The Guardian - Sport

We will not support them, as such, in their endeavour.

The Guardian

Creative endeavour as a route out of frustration and social alienation was not just an appealing idea, Drew suggested, but a growing political imperative.

The Guardian - Tech

What Marvel has achieved with its comic-book universe, which Sony would do well to ape, is a kind of synthesis between creative endeavour and smart studio deal-making which would once have been thought impossible.

The Guardian - Film

It has only really won in 1945 ["a country fit for heroes"], in 1964 [on the scientific and technological challenges of the 1960s] and in 1997 [on economic and social modernisation, a compelling vision of national renewal] – when it speaks in deeper, animated language about national prosperity and collective endeavour.

The Guardian

A performance crafted out of spirit, guile and endeavour almost got Widnes home but they fell short thanks to a piece of individual brilliance from Warrington which sealed one of the most thrilling games of the season.

The Guardian - Sport

"That's not good enough, and changing this is our party's defining purpose … Yes, it's about those words – dreams, ambitions, aspirations – made real through common endeavour … This is Labour's mission.

The Guardian

We will endeavour to engage you with up-to-the-moment reporting, investigations, commentary, blogging, in-depth analysis, open journalism, cutting-edge data visualisation, interactive technology, chutzpah and fun.

The Guardian

Painting, performances and punk rock were to be the beginning of one the city's most original hubs of artistic endeavour.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "endeavour" when you want to convey a sense of formal effort or a serious undertaking. It is particularly suitable for professional or academic writing where precision and a slightly elevated tone are desired.

Common error

Avoid using "endeavour" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler words like "try" or "attempt" are often more appropriate and sound less pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The word "endeavour" primarily functions as a noun referring to an attempt to achieve a goal or as a verb meaning to try hard to do something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in various contexts. Examples show it used to describe projects, efforts, and undertakings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "endeavour" is a versatile word, functioning as both a noun and a verb, to describe an attempt or effort to achieve a goal. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and commonly used in English. Predominantly found in news and media, formal business contexts, and scientific publications, "endeavour" carries a slightly formal tone. While semantically interchangeable with terms like "attempt" or "effort", it implies a more sustained and serious undertaking.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make an effort

Replaces the noun "endeavour" with a verb phrase focusing on the action of trying.

strive

A single-word verb emphasizing determined effort and exertion.

make an attempt

Similar to 'make an effort' but highlights the act of attempting something.

undertake

A more formal verb suggesting the commencement of a significant task.

try

A simple and direct verb for making an effort.

exert oneself

Emphasizes the physical or mental effort involved.

take on

Suggests accepting a challenge or responsibility.

devote oneself

Implies dedicating time and energy to a specific goal.

aspire

Focuses on having ambitions and working towards them.

pursue

Highlights the act of actively following a goal or aim.

FAQs

How to use "endeavour" in a sentence?

You can use "endeavour" as a noun to refer to an attempt to achieve something, or as a verb meaning 'to try hard to do or achieve something'. For example, "Their latest "project" is a creative "endeavour"" or "We will "endeavour" to complete the project on time".

What can I say instead of "endeavour"?

You can use alternatives like "attempt", "effort", "try", or "undertaking" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "endeavour" or "endeavor"?

"Endeavour" is the British English spelling, while "endeavor" is the American English spelling. Both are correct, but choose the spelling that is appropriate for your audience and context.

What's the difference between "endeavour" and "attempt"?

"Endeavour" often implies a more sustained and serious effort than "attempt". While an attempt can be a single, isolated effort, an "endeavour" suggests a more comprehensive and dedicated undertaking.