make serious efforts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make serious efforts" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when emphasizing the importance of putting in significant work or dedication towards a task or goal. Example: "In order to achieve our objectives, we must make serious efforts to improve our communication and collaboration."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Or make serious efforts to bolster energy-efficiency and conservation?

The Economist

"Instead, it should make serious efforts to control the population, if not reduce it".

The New York Times

So we really do need to make serious efforts in improving agricultural productivity.

Cornell University

Japan and North Korea agreed during ministerial talks to make "serious efforts" to normalize relations.

The New York Times

"They need to perceive what wrong orientation they had and make serious efforts to make up for it".

The New York Times

Many states and localities have taken advantage of the gaps left by Heller to make serious efforts to limit gun violence.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

In Paris, Sontag made serious efforts to engage with French film-making, philosophy and writing.

The Guardian

We have made serious efforts to ameliorate that antipathy".

The New York Times

This result reinforces the need for making serious efforts in improving archetype design processes.

Journal of Biomedical Informatics

At no point has the government made serious efforts to do something similar.

The Guardian

The CQC has been making serious efforts to get back on track.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make serious efforts", clearly define the specific actions or steps that constitute those efforts to provide clarity and context.

Common error

Avoid using "make serious efforts" without specifying the area or task. Always clarify what those efforts are directed towards to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make serious efforts" functions as a verbal phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a clause. It describes the action of exerting considerable energy or resources toward a specific goal or objective. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make serious efforts" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verbal phrase that indicates a strong commitment to achieving a goal. As validated by Ludwig AI, it emphasizes dedication and substantial action. Predominantly found in news and media, but also prevalent in scientific and formal business contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various communication needs. Alternatives like "dedicate substantial energy" or "exert considerable effort" offer similar meanings with subtle variations. To maximize clarity, always specify the focus area of these efforts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exert considerable effort

Stresses the exertion and application of effort.

put in a determined effort

Highlights the resolve and determination behind the effort.

dedicate substantial energy

Focuses on the energy expended, highlighting a commitment of resources.

undertake significant measures

Focuses on the concrete actions and steps taken.

commit significant resources

Emphasizes the investment of resources, both tangible and intangible.

invest considerable time and energy

Highlights the investment of both time and energy, implying a deep commitment.

apply oneself diligently

Focuses on the consistent and careful application of effort.

strive earnestly

Emphasizes the sincerity and dedication of the effort.

try hard

A more concise and general way to express effort.

go all out

An idiomatic expression implying maximum effort and commitment.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "make serious efforts" in a sentence?

To effectively use "make serious efforts", specify the goal or area where these efforts are directed. For example, instead of saying "We need to make serious efforts", say "We need to "make serious efforts to reduce waste"".

What are some alternatives to "make serious efforts"?

You can use alternatives such as "dedicate substantial energy", "commit significant resources", or "exert considerable effort" depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "make serious efforts and try hard"?

While not grammatically incorrect, saying "make serious efforts and try hard" can be somewhat redundant. "Make serious efforts" already implies a strong commitment to trying hard, so choosing one or the other is often sufficient.

What is the difference between "make serious efforts" and "attempt"?

"Make serious efforts" suggests a committed and sustained approach, while "attempt" simply means to try something, without necessarily implying a high level of dedication or persistence. So, efforts are a more intense and involved form of attempt.