excessive effort

USAGE SUMMARY

"excessive effort" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone has put in an excessive amount of energy or hard work towards something. Example: Despite making excessive effort to please her boss, Sarah was still overlooked for the promotion.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Fatigue is often experienced as a result of excessive effort expended in managing the distressing fear.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Also, shifting gears in some 2009-12 Expeditions, F-150 pickups and Lincoln Navigators may require excessive effort in cold weather.

The New York Times

Senator Robert C. Byrd, the West Virginia Democrat who stands constant guard over Congressional prerogatives, chided his colleagues today for avoiding debate on serious issues in what he called an excessive effort to seem united after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

The New York Times

Unfortunately this approach requires an excessive effort; therefore, it is rarely pursued by the designer.

Acta Astronautica

Muscle fatigue would occur when the intended physical activity can no longer be continued or is perceived as involving excessive effort and discomfort.

Neuromuscular Disorders

These data suggest that HFNC could effectively contribute to interrupt the post-extubation vicious circle of edema, excessive effort, lung injury and muscle fatigue, facilitating full recovery of lung function.

Annals of Intensive Care

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Mr. Ijichi denied that excessive efforts to cut costs were behind the recent recalls, a criticism leveled by many analysts.

The New York Times

THE great French chef Paul Bocuse, dismissing what he saw as young chefs' excessive efforts to be creative, once told me there were already "300 ways to cook carrots, so we don't need more".

The New York Times - Food

A relevant example which was observed several times is the experience of excessive efforts for maintenance and repair of specific plant equipment, especially those with moving parts (e.g., engines, stirring units).

Energy, Sustainability and Society

The derived expression is suitable to be used in practice for hand calculation and avoids excessive efforts required to perform numerical analysis using finite element or finite strip methods.

Journal of Constructional Steel Research

And yet, everything I have ever read regarding the laws of attraction and the foundation of spiritual principles has led me back again and again to this: Obsessing and excessive efforting equals misery and usually does not help in attaining my goals, whereas letting go and surrendering brings peace and is often accompanied by some pretty magical experiences.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical exertion, consider using "excessive effort" to highlight potential risks of strain or injury. For instance, "Avoid excessive effort when lifting heavy objects to prevent back injuries."

Common error

Avoid using "excessive effort" when a simpler term like "hard work" or "dedication" is more appropriate. "Excessive effort" implies that the effort was somehow disproportionate or even detrimental.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "excessive effort" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "excessive" modifies the noun "effort". It is commonly used to describe situations where the level of exertion is considered beyond what is reasonable or necessary. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "excessive effort" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes situations where the level of exertion is considered disproportionate or detrimental. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is appropriate for describing scenarios where the energy spent is beyond what is required or beneficial. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, this expression serves to communicate concern or criticism regarding resource allocation. While alternatives exist, such as "undue exertion" or "unnecessary strain", the specific choice depends on the desired nuance. Remember to use this phrase when you intend to highlight the imbalance or potentially harmful nature of the effort exerted.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

undue exertion

This phrase emphasizes the inappropriateness or unjustifiability of the amount of effort.

unnecessary strain

This highlights that the effort was not needed or could have been avoided.

inordinate labor

This suggests that the labor involved was beyond what was reasonable or expected.

overzealous striving

This implies that the effort was driven by excessive enthusiasm or zeal.

disproportionate input

This focuses on the imbalance between the effort and the resulting output or reward.

over the top dedication

This emphasizes the intensity of the commitment and focus of energy to a specific goal.

extreme measures

This phrase points to the employment of actions or resources that far exceed the usual

undue stress

This phrase emphasizes the inappropriateness or unjustifiability of the stress endured.

unwarranted attempt

The effort was needless because it has a small chance of success or it is a poor use of resources.

superhuman strength

A display of effort beyond normal human capabilities.

FAQs

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

You can use "excessive effort" to describe situations where the amount of work or energy spent is disproportionate to the result, or potentially harmful. For example, "His "excessive effort" to impress the client backfired when he appeared desperate."

What are some alternatives to "excessive effort"?

Alternatives include "undue exertion", "unnecessary strain", or "disproportionate input", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "excessive effort"?

Use "excessive effort" when you want to emphasize that the amount of work or energy being expended is not only substantial but also possibly wasteful, counterproductive, or harmful. It suggests an imbalance or lack of efficiency.

Is "excess effort" the same as "excessive effort"?

While similar, "excess effort" is less common and might sound slightly less formal. "Excessive effort" more strongly implies a judgment that the effort was unwarranted or disproportionate. The nuance is subtle, but "excessive" adds emphasis.