make a conscious effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a conscious effort" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express the idea that someone is aware of and is actively trying to do something. For example, "I'm determined to get better grades this semester, so I'm making a conscious effort to study harder and use my time more efficiently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I do, absolutely, make a conscious effort [to find them].

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Do you have to make a conscious effort to do that?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I don't really make a conscious effort to be alert on shoots.

The Guardian

I have to make a conscious effort to put the pounds on.

The Guardian - Sport

So I make a conscious effort not to see the papers.

The New York Times - Sports

"I make a conscious effort to mix it up," Papamichael says.

The New York Times

"We still probably got outrebounded, but we tried to make a conscious effort.

The New York Times - Sports

So this term I will make a conscious effort to stay on top of the workload.

The Guardian

"My wife wants me to smarten myself up so I try to make a conscious effort.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I make a conscious effort not to work in that style," he said.

The New Yorker

M.S.: It wasn't anything that I had to make a conscious effort to do.

Science Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "make a conscious effort" with verbs that demonstrate proactive behavior. Examples include: "to improve", "to listen", or "to understand". This emphasizes action and commitment to change.

Common error

Avoid using "make a conscious effort" without specifying the goal. For example, saying "I'll make a conscious effort" is less effective than "I'll make a conscious effort to arrive on time."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a conscious effort" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an active and intentional commitment to perform a specific action. It is typically followed by an infinitive verb phrase specifying the intended action. Ludwig AI validates that this phrase is commonly used in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make a conscious effort" is a widely recognized and grammatically sound way to express intentional action and commitment. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's most frequently found in news, wiki, and science contexts. To use it effectively, clearly state the intended action. Alternatives include "deliberately try" or "be intentional", but ensure they align with your intended meaning. Remember, specifying the goal of your effort enhances clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a determined attempt

Highlights resolve and firmness of purpose.

be intentional

Highlights the state of mind and purpose behind actions.

make an active attempt

Replaces "effort" with "attempt", which can imply a trial or test.

deliberately try

Emphasizes intention and purpose more strongly than "effort".

make a point of

Implies a deliberate action to ensure something happens, often related to habits or routines.

seek deliberately

Emphasizes the act of intentionally seeking or pursuing a goal.

take the initiative

Focuses on starting something proactively rather than maintaining an effort.

purposefully endeavor

Suggests a more formal or earnest commitment.

mindfully strive

Adds a dimension of awareness and presence to the endeavor.

make it a priority

Focuses on giving precedence to a particular action or goal.

FAQs

How can I use "make a conscious effort" in a sentence?

You can use "make a conscious effort" to describe intentionally focusing on a specific action or behavior. For example, "I "make a conscious effort to exercise" three times a week".

What are some alternatives to "make a conscious effort"?

Similar phrases include "deliberately try", "make a point of", or "be intentional". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "make a conscious effort" or "try"?

"Make a conscious effort" implies a greater degree of intent and commitment than simply "try". While "try" suggests an attempt, "make a conscious effort" emphasizes a deliberate and focused approach.

What's the difference between "make a conscious effort" and "make an effort"?

"Make an effort" implies some level of action, while "make a conscious effort" suggests being specifically aware and deliberate about that action. The latter highlights mindfulness and intent.