greatest effort

USAGE SUMMARY

"greatest effort" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to describe the most intense or extreme effort one has made or can make in a given situation. For example: "I'm giving my greatest effort to finish this project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

But its greatest effort came on Sept. 11.

The New York Times

This life she loved so much had been lived, all along, with the greatest effort.

The New Yorker

The good news is that her first hit is by no means her greatest effort.

The Guardian - Music

It is only with the greatest effort that one turns the page after an opening like that.

The New York Times - Books

The cost is directly related to the effort required to produce a hypermedia application, with the greatest effort in authoring.

Computers in Industry

Yet it seems doomed to hamstring what should be the greatest effort at historic reinstatement of modern times.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Great effort!

Independent

You gave a great effort.

The New York Times

But great effort for him.

Independent

Great effort all round.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This takes great effort.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "greatest effort" to underscore a commitment to excellence or overcoming significant challenges. It is effective in contexts where you wish to emphasize dedication and maximum input.

Common error

Avoid using "greatest effort" in situations that do not warrant such emphasis. Opt for simpler phrases like "best try" or "hard work" in everyday scenarios to maintain appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "greatest effort" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "greatest" is an adjective modifying the noun "effort". Ludwig AI shows it's used to describe the highest level of exertion or dedication applied to a task or situation. It often indicates a significant attempt to achieve a particular outcome.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

24%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "greatest effort" is a commonly used expression to describe the maximum exertion or dedication applied to a task, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a noun phrase, emphasizing intensity and commitment. Predominantly found in news and media, science, and academic contexts, it maintains a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the context and avoid overuse in casual situations. Alternatives like "utmost exertion" or "maximum endeavor" may be more appropriate in formal settings, while simpler phrases such as "best shot" may suffice in everyday scenarios. Remember to emphasize dedication and maximum input by using "greatest effort".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utmost exertion

Emphasizes the extreme level of physical or mental energy expended.

maximum endeavor

Focuses on the attempt to achieve something using the most resources available.

peak performance

Highlights the highest level of achievement or execution.

best shot

Indicates giving something the highest level of attempt possible.

all one's might

Implies using all available strength or power.

fullest capacity

Suggests utilizing all available resources or ability.

top of one's game

Denotes performing at one's absolute best.

supreme attempt

Highlights the superlative nature of the attempt.

most significant try

Focuses on the importance or impact of the attempt.

ultimate commitment

Emphasizes the unwavering dedication and effort applied.

FAQs

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

You can use "greatest effort" to describe the maximum exertion someone puts into a task, such as, "She made her "greatest effort" to win the race".

What's a formal alternative to "greatest effort"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "utmost exertion" or "maximum endeavor" as sophisticated alternatives to "greatest effort".

Is "greatest effort" always the best phrase to use?

Not always. Simpler options like "best shot" or "fullest capacity" can be more appropriate depending on the audience and the level of formality required.

What are some common synonyms for "greatest effort"?

Common synonyms include "peak performance", "all one's might", and "top of one's game", each bringing a slightly different nuance to the meaning.