make an effort

USAGE SUMMARY

"make an effort" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express that someone is making a conscious effort to do something. For example, "He was determined to succeed, so he made an effort to master the new software program."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They make an effort.

The New York Times - Style

So everybody has to make an effort.

The New York Times

But the couple did make an effort.

The New York Times - Arts

Everybody has to make an effort, right?

The New York Times

Can't you at least make an effort?

The New Yorker

"You have to make an effort".

The New York Times

Your mouth has to make an effort".

The New Yorker

"I thought I'd make an effort.

The Guardian

They don't make an effort; they're paying.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But I do make an effort.

The Washington Post

"France, in particular, should make an effort.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make an effort" to encourage someone to try, especially when facing a challenge. This phrase is versatile and appropriate for various situations, from personal goals to professional tasks.

Common error

While "make an effort" is useful, avoid repeating it excessively in close proximity. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "try hard" or "put in the work" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make an effort" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of consciously trying to achieve a goal. It emphasizes the deliberate investment of energy and focus towards a specific objective. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase is perfectly correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

31%

News & Media

30%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make an effort" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that signifies a conscious attempt to achieve a goal. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in English writing. It is versatile and appropriate for various contexts, from news and media to instructional guides. While alternatives like "try hard" and "put in the work" exist, "make an effort" remains a clear and effective way to encourage action and convey the importance of dedication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

try hard

Focuses on the intensity of the attempt.

put in the work

Emphasizes the labor and dedication involved.

exert oneself

Highlights the personal energy expended.

go the extra mile

Suggests exceeding expectations in effort.

give it a shot

Implies a willingness to attempt something, even if success isn't guaranteed.

take pains

Emphasizes careful and meticulous effort.

do one's best

Focuses on achieving the highest possible standard.

make a point of

Highlights the deliberate nature of the action.

strive

Suggests a continuous and determined effort.

apply oneself

Focuses on dedicating one's skills and abilities.

FAQs

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

You can use "make an effort" to describe the act of trying to achieve something. For example, "She decided to make an effort to improve her communication skills" or "They need to make an effort to understand each other's perspectives".

What can I say instead of "make an effort"?

Alternatives to "make an effort" include "try hard", "exert oneself", or "put in the work". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "make an effort" or "do an effort"?

"Make an effort" is the correct and idiomatic expression. "Do an effort" is not standard English and should be avoided.

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

"Try" is a general term for attempting something. "Make an effort" emphasizes a more deliberate and sustained attempt. It suggests putting in extra energy and focus into the task.