it is a good effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is a good effort" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to acknowledge someone's attempt or work, often in a positive or encouraging context. Example: "Although the project didn't turn out as expected, I want to say that it is a good effort and I appreciate your hard work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"It is a good effort," he said.

The Guardian - Sport

The oddly named "What's your take?" app is slightly more socially savvy, asking followers to answer the question "Have you ever volunteered for a campaign?" While it's unlikely anyone would want to share any answer other than "Yes, Loved it," it is a good effort.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

But it's a good effort.

The New York Times

Over all, it was a good effort.

The New York Times - Sports

On the whole it's a good effort.

The Guardian - Tech

"It was outstanding, it was a good effort from us," Granger said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Nothing to hang our heads about, it was a good effort".

The New York Times - Sports

It was a good effort and did at least prevent a boundary.

The Guardian - Sport

It was a good effort especially when you factor in that he had barely slept.

The Guardian - Sport

Unfortunately, it's a good effort getting into the finals, but nobody remembers who comes in second.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a good effort that makes you want to see him in person, leading a band like the one he has here.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is a good effort" to acknowledge someone's attempt, even if the outcome wasn't perfect. It provides encouragement and recognizes the value of trying.

Common error

Avoid using "it is a good effort" when exceptional results demand a more enthusiastic expression of appreciation. Consider using phrases like "it's an outstanding achievement" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is a good effort" functions as an acknowledgment and validation of an attempt or undertaking. According to Ludwig AI, the expression is considered correct and suitable for recognizing someone's work, often to provide encouragement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Tech

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is a good effort" is a grammatically sound and widely accepted expression used to acknowledge and encourage someone's attempt or work. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While suitable in a variety of contexts, from news reports to casual conversations, it is important to consider the appropriate level of enthusiasm when using it. When the result is exceptional, a more expressive phrase might be more fitting. Several alternatives exist, such as "it is a commendable attempt" or "it shows promise", depending on the context and desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's a commendable attempt

Replaces 'good effort' with a more formal and emphatic phrase, stressing the praiseworthiness of the try.

it was a valiant try

Emphasizes the courage and determination behind the attempt, particularly useful in situations where success was not achieved.

it represents a solid attempt

Highlights the substantial and reliable nature of the endeavor, suitable for more formal contexts.

that's a noteworthy endeavor

Shifts focus to the action itself, accentuating the remarkableness of the undertaking.

it shows promise

Focuses on the potential and future prospects suggested by the current attempt.

it's a step in the right direction

Emphasizes progress and advancement, even if the final goal has not been reached.

it demonstrates initiative

Highlights the proactive and self-starting nature of the effort.

it's a positive move

Focuses on the beneficial and favorable nature of the action taken.

it reflects well on the team

Shifts focus to the positive impression the attempt creates, useful in collaborative settings.

it's an encouraging sign

Highlights the optimistic and hopeful nature of the effort, providing motivation for future attempts.

FAQs

How can I use "it is a good effort" in a sentence?

You can use "it is a good effort" to acknowledge someone's attempt or work, often in a positive or encouraging context. For instance, "Although the project didn't turn out as expected, I want to say that "it is a good effort" and I appreciate your hard work."

What can I say instead of "it is a good effort"?

You can use alternatives like "it is a commendable attempt", "it was a valiant try", or "it shows promise" depending on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

Is "it is a good effort" formal or informal?

"It is a good effort" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. It's appropriate in most professional and academic settings, though you might choose a more enthusiastic phrase in very informal situations.

When is it inappropriate to say "it is a good effort"?

It might be inappropriate to use "it is a good effort" when the result is exceptionally poor or negligent, as it could come across as sarcastic or dismissive. In such cases, constructive criticism might be more suitable.