loses effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "loses effort" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or unclear.
It could be used in contexts discussing a decrease in energy, motivation, or effectiveness in a task or activity. Example: "As the project progressed, the team loses effort and enthusiasm, leading to a decline in productivity."

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Sen. Rand Paul loses effort to cut off aid to Egypt.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Halladay managed a strong score of 72 in his losing effort.

The New York Times

Nigeria fared better against Argentina and looked dangerous in a losing effort.

The New York Times

R. A. Dickey (6-4) pitched well again for the Mets in a losing effort.

The New York Times

B.J. Benik allowed only four hits in a losing effort for Seton Hall 40-166).

The New York Times - Sports

In the snows of New Hampshire in February, there was poignancy to Clinton's losing effort.

The Guardian

Johnson guarded Chamique Holdsclaw, who scored 18 points in the Mystics' losing effort.

The New York Times - Sports

But last night, he played great, scoring 25 points in yet another losing effort.

The New York Times

Tasha Rodgers scored 29 points for the Bears (13-1) in the losing effort.

The New York Times - Sports

Against Buffalo, they gained the most rushing yards in a losing effort since 1944.

The New York Times - Sports

In the 1973 championship game, he scored 29 points in a losing effort against Coach John Wooden's powerful U.C.L.A. squad.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger verbs like "diminishes" or "reduces" for more clarity. "Loses" can be vague, so choose a verb that specifies how the effort is affected.

Common error

Be mindful that "loses effort" indicates a reduction in expended energy, while "wastes effort" suggests that the effort was ineffectual from the beginning. Ensure your choice reflects the accurate context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "loses effort" functions primarily as a verb phrase + noun. It describes a reduction or decrease in the exertion or energy applied to a task. This is illustrated in the examples provided by Ludwig, where various entities are described as "losing effort" in different contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

20%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "loses effort" describes a reduction in energy or dedication applied to a task. While grammatically acceptable, Ludwig suggests it's not commonly used and can sound awkward. The phrase appears mostly in news and general contexts, suggesting a neutral register. For improved clarity, consider alternatives like "diminishes effort" or "reduces exertion". Be mindful not to conflate "loses effort" with "wastes effort"; the former indicates a decline, while the latter suggests ineffectual expenditure from the start.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Diminishes effort

Replaces "loses" with a synonym suggesting a gradual reduction in effort.

Reduces exertion

Focuses on the physical aspect of effort, implying a decrease in physical activity.

Decreases application

Highlights a reduction in the amount of effort applied to a task.

Wastes energy

Implies that the effort expended is not yielding positive results.

Fails to capitalize

Shifts the focus to the lack of success from the effort invested.

Compromises attempts

Suggests the effort is undermined or sabotaged.

Undermines endeavor

Emphasizes the weakening or subversion of an effort or project.

Sabotages initiative

Implies a deliberate act that causes an effort to fail.

Nullifies struggle

Suggests that the effort becomes pointless or without effect.

Abandons commitment

Focuses on the lack of continuous effort, implying a ceasing of dedication.

FAQs

What does "loses effort" mean?

The phrase "loses effort" suggests a decrease in the amount of energy or dedication someone puts into a task or activity. It can imply a reduction in motivation or effectiveness.

What can I say instead of "loses effort"?

Alternatives include phrases like "diminishes effort", "reduces exertion", or "decreases application" depending on the specific context.

Is "loses effort" grammatically correct?

While not incorrect, "loses effort" is less common. Alternatives like "loses momentum" or "decreases application" might offer greater clarity and precision.

When is it appropriate to use "loses effort"?

Use "loses effort" when you want to indicate a decline in someone's dedication or energy towards a task, especially when the reason for the decline isn't explicitly stated. But keep in mind what Ludwig AI suggests and consider alternatives.