make an effort to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make an effort to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize the need for extra effort to achieve a goal. For example: "If we want to get this project done on time, we will have to make an effort to work faster."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Make an effort to identify gaps between principles and practices.

Harvard University

They make an effort to inject humor into the workplace.

Stanford University

They have to make an effort to supply maximum concentration.

The New York Times - Arts

Most coaches did make an effort to act with sanity.

The New York Times

You should make an effort to find out.

The Guardian - Tech

I make an effort to get my breathing established.

The Guardian

I have to make an effort to be professional".

The New Yorker

Make an effort to interact in person.

Forbes

They should make an effort to address global peace.

BBC

Let us make an effort to reduce our carbon footprint!

Duke University

Make an effort to practice self-care.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make an effort to", clearly state the specific action or goal you are trying to achieve. This provides context and makes your writing more effective.

Common error

Avoid using "make an effort to" without a clear objective. For example, instead of saying "make an effort to improve", specify what you want to improve, such as "make an effort to improve your communication skills".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make an effort to" functions as an infinitive of purpose, indicating the intention or aim behind an action. Ludwig examples show it expressing commitment and intention.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

36%

News & Media

30%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make an effort to" is a versatile and commonly used expression that signifies a conscious and deliberate attempt to achieve a goal. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. It's important to follow best practices by clearly stating the objective you're trying to achieve to increase clarity. Related phrases like "strive to" and "endeavor to" can be used as alternatives, depending on the desired nuance. The phrase is appropriate for both formal and informal settings, making it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit. The expression is mostly frequent in Wiki, News & Media and Academia.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make an attempt to

Formally indicates the action of trying something.

try to

A simpler and more general way of expressing an attempt.

do one's best to

Highlights the commitment to achieving the highest possible standard.

strive to

Emphasizes continuous and determined effort.

aim to

Focuses on the intention or objective of the effort.

endeavor to

Suggests a more formal and earnest attempt.

seek to

Implies a directed and purposeful attempt.

make a point of

Suggests a deliberate and conscious decision to act.

take pains to

Highlights the care and attention given to the effort.

exert oneself to

Emphasizes the personal energy expended.

FAQs

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

Use "make an effort to" when you want to emphasize that achieving a specific goal requires conscious and deliberate action. For example, "You should make an effort to arrive on time for the meeting".

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

You can use alternatives like "strive to", "try to", or "endeavor to" depending on the context.

Which is correct: "make an effort to" or "try and"?

"Make an effort to" is generally considered more formal and precise. "Try and" is more informal, but still acceptable in many contexts. The best choice depends on the tone and audience of your writing.

Is there a difference between "make an effort to" and "try to"?

While both phrases express an attempt, "make an effort to" often implies a more deliberate and significant commitment than simply "try to".