make an effort to act

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make an effort to act" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when encouraging someone to take action or to emphasize the importance of trying to do something. Example: "In order to achieve our goals, we must make an effort to act on our plans without delay."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Most coaches did make an effort to act with sanity.

The New York Times

Weiwei says of social media: "I'm so impressed and touched that all these young people want to make an effort, to act".

Huffington Post

While I felt certain that I would never feel good about the outcome of this election, I somehow believed that things would simmer down and perhaps Mr. Trump would make an effort to act... well, more presidential.

Huffington Post

Once you figure it out, it's time to make an effort to act differently.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Cristiano made an effort to play.

BBC

In fact, when we make an effort to love others even when they act in ways we consider to be unlovable, we're imitating one of the greatest traits of God of all, which is that he loves all people unconditionally.

WikiHow

Act cool around them for a while after the apology, and let them make an effort to call you and keep up the friendship.

WikiHow

Please make an effort to clarify.

eLife

Make an effort to make friends.

WikiHow

Remember to make an effort to improve.

WikiHow

Make an effort to connect with everyone.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make an effort to act" when you want to emphasize the conscious decision and deliberate attempt to behave or perform in a certain way, especially when it requires overcoming obstacles or changing habits.

Common error

While "make an effort to act" is a valid phrase, avoid using it excessively in close proximity. Overuse can make your writing sound stilted or unnatural. Consider using simpler alternatives like "try to act" or "attempt to act" to maintain a natural flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make an effort to act" functions as a verbal phrase, typically serving as an infinitive phrase acting as an adverbial modifier, indicating purpose or intention. It expresses a conscious decision to behave in a certain manner. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make an effort to act" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that emphasizes a conscious and deliberate attempt to behave or perform in a certain way. Ludwig confirms its validity. While not extremely frequent, it's appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and general writing. Consider simpler alternatives like "try to act" for less formal situations. Remember to use the phrase when highlighting a committed action and be mindful of overuse to maintain natural writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

try to act

This alternative simplifies the original phrase by omitting "an effort", making it a more direct expression of attempting to act.

endeavor to act

This option replaces "make an effort" with "endeavor", suggesting a more formal and determined attempt to act.

strive to act

This alternative uses "strive" to emphasize the exertion and dedication involved in acting.

attempt to act

This phrase is a more straightforward and neutral way of expressing the intention to act, without emphasizing the effort required.

seek to act

This alternative suggests a deliberate and intentional pursuit of action.

take steps to act

This option emphasizes the process of initiating action through a series of steps.

make a move to act

This alternative implies initiating a specific action or plan.

exert oneself to act

This highlights the personal investment and energy put into acting.

undertake to act

Suggests beginning or committing to a task or action.

make it a point to act

This alternative emphasizes the deliberate and intentional nature of the decision to act.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "make an effort to act" for a more formal tone?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "endeavor to act" or "strive to act". These alternatives convey a sense of serious commitment and dedication.

What's a simpler way to say "make an effort to act"?

A simpler way to express the same idea is to use "try to act" or "attempt to act". These options are more direct and less verbose.

When is it appropriate to use "make an effort to act"?

Use "make an effort to act" when you want to highlight the conscious decision and deliberate attempt to behave or perform in a certain way, especially when it requires overcoming obstacles or changing habits.

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

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "make an effort to act" emphasizes the conscious and deliberate exertion of energy, whereas "try to act" is a more general expression of attempting to do something.