make an extra effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make an extra effort" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it in a sentence such as "I'm determined to make an extra effort to get top marks in the exam".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We should make an extra effort to broaden our lens.

The New York Times

You must make an extra effort to rotate a second time a day.

Cornell University

I just wanted to make an extra effort to let her know I felt her presence".

The New York Times - Sports

They are too tired to be good, to make an extra effort, to try harder.

The Guardian - Opinion

Assuming you must look elsewhere, make an extra effort to research the company culture.

The Guardian

To safeguard, themselves, we recommend that employees of startups make an extra effort to demonstrate expertise.

Harvard Business Review

Instead, we recommend that employees of startups make an extra effort to demonstrate expertise.

Harvard Business Review

Downstate voters, especially commuters, should make an extra effort to find this item on the ballot and mark it Yes.

The New York Times

Having said that, there are specialist agencies out there and others who make an extra effort to be inclusive.

The Guardian - Travel

But unlike Levittown houses, which were largely unadorned, Ms. Cusato's cottages make an extra effort to incorporate historical detailing.

The New York Times

Five of them, Joe, Cooney, Hrdlicka, Mooney, and Rooney, make an extra effort to elevate themselves spiritually.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make an extra effort", ensure the context clearly defines what the standard or expected effort is, so the 'extra' component is understood.

Common error

Avoid using "make an extra effort" as filler language. Ensure there is a genuine need for increased dedication or action, rather than stating the obvious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make an extra effort" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of exerting oneself beyond the usual level. Ludwig shows it's used to emphasize dedication and commitment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Wiki

18%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make an extra effort" is a versatile and frequently used expression that conveys dedication and commitment. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is grammatically correct and suitable for a wide range of contexts, from news and media to formal business communications. While alternatives like "go the extra mile" or "put in additional effort" exist, "make an extra effort" remains a clear and effective way to emphasize the importance of increased dedication. Remember to use it purposefully, ensuring the context justifies the need for additional exertion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go the extra mile

Indicates exceeding expectations or putting in more effort than is strictly required.

put in additional effort

Highlights the act of investing more work or energy into something.

work harder

A straightforward way to express the need for increased labor or effort.

exert oneself more

Emphasizes the physical or mental exertion beyond the usual level.

give it one's all

Suggests investing all of one's energy and focus into a task.

try harder

A simpler and more direct way of saying to increase one's effort.

make a greater attempt

Focuses on the act of attempting something with increased vigor.

dedicate more resources

Implies allocating more time, money, or personnel to achieve a goal.

apply oneself diligently

Stresses the importance of careful and consistent application of effort.

strain every nerve

Highlights the intensity and effort involved in pushing oneself to the limit.

FAQs

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

You can use "make an extra effort" to express the need for increased dedication. For instance, "I will "go the extra mile" /s/go+the+extra+mile to finish this project on time".

What are some alternatives to "make an extra effort"?

Alternatives include "go the extra mile", "put in additional effort", or "try harder", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "make a special effort" instead of "make an extra effort"?

While both convey putting in more effort, "make a special effort" implies doing something unique or specific, whereas "make an extra effort" simply means increasing the existing level of effort. In most cases they can be considered equivalents, though, the differences are subtle.

When is it appropriate to use "make an extra effort" in professional writing?

It's appropriate to use "make an extra effort" when you want to emphasize a commitment to exceeding expectations or overcoming challenges in a professional context. Use it when there is a clear, demonstrable need to "put in additional effort".