make the effort

USAGE SUMMARY

"make the effort" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to put in the necessary work or attempt in order to achieve something. Example: "It may be difficult, but we need to make the effort to reach a compromise in order to move forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Make the effort.

The New Yorker

Why make the effort?

The Guardian

Make the effort to find one.

The New York Times - Arts

Make the effort to find it.

The New York Times

President Bush failed to make the effort.

The New York Times

If you make the effort, it's appreciated.

The Guardian

Not many kitchens make the effort.

The New York Times

But Jenna wanted to make the effort.

The New York Times

If you'll only make the effort.

The Guardian - Music

Not that he doesn't make the effort.

The New Yorker

It's easy if you make the effort".

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When encouraging someone to "make the effort", clearly state the benefits or positive outcomes that will result from their actions. This provides motivation and reinforces the value of their effort.

Common error

Avoid using "make the effort" as a standalone statement. Always provide context by explaining what specific actions are required or why the effort is important. For instance, instead of saying "Just make the effort", specify "Make the effort to research thoroughly before investing".

Linguistic Context

Make the effort functions as a verbal phrase that encourages or emphasizes the need for action and dedication towards achieving a specific goal. Ludwig examples show its use in diverse scenarios, from personal improvement to professional endeavors, reinforcing its role in prompting active engagement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Wiki

22%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

13%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make the effort" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that encourages active engagement and dedication. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and finds widespread use across diverse contexts, particularly in news, media and informal communications. To enhance its impact, always provide clear context and specify the desired actions. Alternative phrases such as "exert oneself" or "put in the work" offer similar meanings, allowing for nuanced expression. By understanding its communicative purpose and register, writers can effectively use "make the effort" to motivate and inspire action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

try one's best

This suggests giving the maximum effort possible.

put in the work

This phrase highlights the labor and dedication needed for a task.

take the trouble

This implies overcoming inconvenience to accomplish something.

exert oneself

This alternative emphasizes the personal exertion and energy required.

apply oneself

Focuses on dedicating one's attention and energy to a specific task.

go the extra mile

This suggests exceeding expectations and doing more than what is required.

invest the time

Highlights the time commitment as a valuable resource.

dedicate the energy

Focuses on the energy and resources needed.

shoulder the responsibility

Emphasizes the willingness to accept and handle a task.

give it a shot

This implies attempting something even if the outcome is uncertain.

FAQs

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

You can use "make the effort" to encourage someone to try, even if something is difficult. For example, "You should "try one's best" and see if you like it."

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

You can use alternatives like "exert oneself", "put in the work", or "go the extra mile" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "make an effort" or "make the effort"?

"Make the effort" is generally preferred when referring to a specific task or goal. "Make an effort" is more general, but both are acceptable.

What's the difference between "make the effort" and "take the trouble"?

"Make the effort" emphasizes the action of trying, while "take the trouble" highlights overcoming inconvenience. Both phrases indicate a willingness to do something that requires extra work or attention.