exert

USAGE SUMMARY

"exert" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to mean to apply effort or influence on something or someone. Example sentence: The teacher exerted a lot of energy to try to keep the students engaged and interested.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His parents were teachers, and he seemed born to exert diligence and acquire merit.

The Guardian

If the international media want to be helpful especially for the conflict situation, they should exert more time and effort understanding practically what the needs are.

The Guardian

It is not the fault of the broadcasters, but of the politicians, who exert too much control.

The Guardian

She describes the inescapable dominance they exert over the landscape: "You come off the motorway and as you drive along the main road, it's in front of you on the horizon, and then because of the lie of the land, it's suddenly on your left.

The Guardian

Self-interest, as well as principles, should convince the PLP that it has a duty to exert such pressure on the prime minister that he realises that, if the bill goes ahead, he comes to a sudden stop.

The Guardian

In truth, I'm a big fan of superstitious thought, of how people across cultures try to exert control over a seemingly indifferent/random/chaotic universe by doing absurd things.

The Guardian

Collingwood stars Scott Pendlebury and Dane Swan weren't able to exert their usual influence early and Travis Cloke managed just one goal in the first half before finishing with two, but to put the result down to an off night for the Pies would do an injustice to the hard-working Dogs.

The Guardian - Sport

Weeks of bitter confrontations with Democrats and moderate Republicans will have yielded no discernible gains for conservatives – except, perhaps, for the display of power that have proven they can still exert over the embattled speaker of the House.

The Guardian

The fact that education is devolved in Scotland and Wales may make it difficult for the nationalists to exert influence in this area.

The Guardian

The putrefaction of fan communities is something artists rarely acknowledge, and reining in grotesque fanbases is another type of control artists should exert in 2014.

The Guardian - Music

We support the European energy union and it is our opinion that it will serve as a safeguard against Russian attempts to impose projects and exert influence.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "exert", ensure the subject has the capacity or authority to apply the mentioned influence or effort.

Common error

Avoid using "exert" when the subject lacks the means or resources to effectively influence the situation. Choose a different verb if the influence is merely attempted or hoped for but unlikely to succeed.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "exert" is as a transitive verb. It requires a direct object, indicating what is being applied or put forth. As Ludwig AI highlights, "exert" is often used to describe applying effort, influence, or pressure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Formal & Business

28%

Science

26%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The verb "exert" is a versatile term used to describe the application of effort, influence, or pressure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its usage spans various contexts, from news and media to formal business settings, though it is less common in academic or encyclopedic writing. When using "exert", it's important to ensure that the subject has the capacity to effectively apply the specified action. Alternative verbs, such as "apply" or "exercise", can be used depending on the desired nuance. In summary, "exert" is a strong and useful verb when describing intentional and effective action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise

Similar to "exert" but can also refer to the practice of a skill or right.

apply pressure

Specifically refers to trying to influence someone's actions.

apply

Focuses on the practical application of something, often a skill or technique, rather than a forceful action.

bring to bear

Highlights the act of directing resources or influences toward a specific goal.

wield

Implies having and using power or influence effectively.

put forth

Emphasizes the effort or energy expended.

make use of

Focuses on utilizing something available for a particular purpose.

set in motion

Highlights the beginning of a process or sequence of events.

put into action

Emphasizes the start of doing or implementing something

activate

Implies initiating or setting something into active operation.

FAQs

How can I use "exert" in a sentence?

You can use "exert" to describe applying effort, influence, or pressure. For instance, "The company will "exert influence" on the market" or "He had to "exert himself" to finish the marathon".

What are some alternatives to the word "exert"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "exert" with alternatives such as "apply", "exercise", or "wield". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "exert effort" or is there a better phrasing?

While "exert effort" is grammatically correct, stronger alternatives may include "make an effort", "apply effort", or "dedicate resources". These options can provide a more direct and impactful expression.

How does "exert" differ from "exercise" in meaning?

"Exert" implies a more forceful or direct application of something (like influence or energy), whereas "exercise" often suggests a more regular or habitual use of a skill, right, or quality. For instance, you might "exert pressure" on someone, but "exercise caution" in a situation.