legitimate effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "legitimate effort" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a sincere and valid attempt to achieve something or to address a problem. Example: "The team made a legitimate effort to improve the project's outcome, demonstrating their commitment to success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

It was not at all important whether her argument was correct — only that it was a legitimate effort.

The New Yorker

Israel was undertaking an "appropriate and legitimate effort" to defend itself but the consequences were of deep concern, Kerry said.

The Guardian

Mussina said he considered off-season testing a legitimate effort to deter the use of performance enhancers.

The New York Times - Sports

"The Mets made a legitimate effort to acquire him," Koo's agent, Alan Nero, told The Associated Press yesterday.

The New York Times - Sports

Would that decision be a provocation or a legitimate effort to commemorate the war and the people who died in it?

The New York Times

Nevertheless, Samper had proved popular with the public for what was perceived as a legitimate effort to step up the war on the drug lords.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Federal officials have argued that the raids were a legitimate, lawful effort to deport immigrants with outstanding deportation orders.

The New York Times

Similar rigorous and legitimate efforts were made in many arenas.

The New York Times

Mr. Rove has stonewalled Congress's legitimate efforts to investigate.

The New York Times

He insists he has no desire to stop legitimate efforts to enforce intellectual-property (IP) rights.

The Economist

Apple argues that these changes are legitimate efforts to offer consumers a flawless experience on its devices.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "legitimate effort" when you want to convey that an attempt is not only serious but also justified and in accordance with accepted standards or rules.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "legitimate effort" guarantees success. The phrase only indicates the validity and sincerity of the attempt, not its outcome. It is important to acknowledge the possibility of failure despite a "legitimate effort".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "legitimate effort" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where 'legitimate' modifies 'effort'. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and usable. It serves to describe an attempt as valid, justifiable, and in accordance with accepted standards.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Academic Institutions & Universities

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "legitimate effort" is a common and correct way to describe an attempt that is valid, justifiable, and in accordance with accepted standards. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It's frequently used in news and media to convey that an action is reasonable and appropriate. While it implies validity, it does not guarantee success. When writing, remember that "legitimate effort" focuses on the justification and sincerity of the attempt, rather than its outcome. Alternatives such as "genuine attempt" or "valid endeavor" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

valid effort

Highlights the soundness and legitimacy of the attempt, focusing on its factual or logical basis.

legitimate endeavor

Replaces "effort" with "endeavor", implying a more significant or sustained attempt.

genuine effort

Emphasizes the sincerity and authenticity of the attempt, focusing on its honesty.

justified effort

Emphasizes that the attempt is supported by a valid reason or justification, highlighting its defensibility.

reasonable effort

Indicates an attempt that is fair and appropriate given the circumstances, focusing on the appropriateness of the attempt.

fair effort

Suggests an attempt that is equitable and just, emphasizing the impartiality of the attempt.

understandable effort

Suggests that the attempt is easy to comprehend and accept, emphasizing the rationale behind the attempt.

competent effort

Highlights the skill and capability involved in the attempt, focusing on its quality.

legal effort

Indicates an attempt that is permissible by law, narrowing the context to legal compliance.

political effort

Describes an attempt related to political activities or goals, narrowing the context to politics.

FAQs

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

You can use "legitimate effort" to describe an action or attempt that is considered valid, reasonable, and justifiable, for example: "The company made a "legitimate effort" to address the environmental concerns."

What are some alternatives to using "legitimate effort"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "genuine attempt", "valid endeavor", or "justified attempt".

Is there a difference between a "legitimate effort" and a "good effort"?

Yes, while "good effort" suggests a commendable level of exertion, "legitimate effort" implies that the attempt is also valid and justifiable, based on accepted standards or rules. A "good effort" might not necessarily be "legitimate", and vice versa.

When is it appropriate to use "legitimate effort" instead of "sincere effort"?

"Sincere effort" highlights the honesty and earnestness of the attempt, while "legitimate effort" emphasizes its validity and justification. Use "legitimate effort" when the focus is on whether the attempt is justifiable, appropriate, or in accordance with regulations.