making every reasonable effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "making every reasonable effort" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one is expressing a commitment to try hard or do their best within practical limits. Example: "The company is committed to making every reasonable effort to meet the project deadline while ensuring quality standards are maintained."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Princeton University, however, and its partner organizations, are committed to making every reasonable effort to provide you with a healthy and safe Bridge Year experience.

Princeton University

"But you simply cannot let an industry that defines an entire region to just die out without making every reasonable effort to restore it to its past glory".

The New York Times

"Chevron referred this matter to the U.S. Department of Justice and Ecuador's prosecutor general after making every reasonable effort to verify the evidence that was presented".

The New York Times

It implies a commitment to develop and use technology to help meet the most pressing human and societal needs, while making every reasonable effort to anticipate and mitigate adverse implications or unintended consequences.

Life Sciences, Society and Policy

In such cases the doctor must tell the government, but only after making "every reasonable effort to persuade them to stop [driving]," and, the General Medical Council says, after the patient has been told in person and in writing. 1 On its website the Care Quality Commission CQCC) shows the number of patient records that are read during inspections.

British Medical Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Library staff will make every reasonable effort to assist patrons with special needs.

Harvard University

Make every reasonable effort to return checked bags within 24 hours.

The New York Times - Travel

"You have a duty to make every reasonable effort to reach a unanimous verdict," the judge said.

The Guardian

"The state makes every reasonable effort to accommodate religious practices," said Terry Thornton, a spokeswoman for the Department of Corrections.

The New York Times

The Bush proposal requires that an employer make "every reasonable effort" to find an interested American to fill the job.

The New York Times

We make every reasonable effort to be free of obligation to news sources and to special interests.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "making every reasonable effort" to demonstrate a commitment to achieving a goal while acknowledging that external constraints or unforeseen circumstances may limit the outcome. It sets realistic expectations while conveying a strong intention to succeed.

Common error

Avoid using "making every reasonable effort" as a guarantee of success. This phrase indicates intention and diligence, not a guaranteed outcome. Ensure that communication sets appropriate expectations, recognizing the possibility of unforeseen challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "making every reasonable effort" functions as a hedge, softening the commitment to a specific outcome. As Ludwig AI indicates, it suggests a commitment to try hard while acknowledging that results may vary. The phrase balances ambition with practicality, signaling due diligence without guaranteeing success.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "making every reasonable effort" is a phrase used to express a commitment to pursuing a goal while acknowledging potential limitations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English. Its frequency is classified as "uncommon", primarily appearing in academic, news and media, and scientific contexts. The phrase functions as a hedge, setting realistic expectations without promising guaranteed success. When writing, remember to use this phrase to indicate intention and diligence, but avoid implying a guaranteed outcome. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "exerting all reasonable efforts". In essence, "making every reasonable effort" is a balanced way to convey dedication and realism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

doing everything possible

Focuses on the extent of action, emphasizing maximum effort.

exerting all reasonable efforts

Similar in meaning, but uses more formal language.

taking all reasonable steps

Emphasizes the process and actions taken.

striving to the best of one's ability

Highlights personal capability and commitment.

endeavoring to the fullest extent

More formal and emphasizes dedication.

giving it one's best shot

Informal and emphasizes trying hard.

going the extra mile

Focuses on exceeding expectations.

doing one's utmost

Highlights the level of exertion, indicating the highest possible effort.

trying one's level best

Emphasizes a sincere and earnest attempt.

putting one's shoulder to the wheel

Idiomatic, suggests applying oneself with great energy and effort.

FAQs

How can I use "making every reasonable effort" in a sentence?

You can use "making every reasonable effort" to indicate a strong commitment to achieving a goal despite possible challenges. For example: "The company is "making every reasonable effort" to reduce its carbon footprint."

What's the difference between "making every reasonable effort" and "doing everything possible"?

"Making every reasonable effort" implies working diligently within practical constraints, while "doing everything possible" suggests a more exhaustive approach, potentially without considering limitations. The former sets realistic expectations, the latter implies an all-out attempt.

Is it redundant to say "making every possible and reasonable effort"?

Yes, it is redundant. The terms "possible" and "reasonable" overlap significantly in this context. "Making every reasonable effort" already encompasses actions that are both feasible and practical. Adding "possible" doesn't add significant meaning.

What can I say instead of "making every reasonable effort" when a more formal tone is needed?

In a more formal context, consider using "exerting all reasonable efforts" or "taking all reasonable steps". These alternatives maintain a similar meaning while conveying a higher degree of formality.