or make an effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "or make an effort" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting that someone should try or put in some effort towards a task or goal. Example: "You can choose to relax and do nothing, or make an effort to improve your skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

They occasionally talk by phone or make an effort to see each other, friends say.

The New York Times

I don't think we need to do any kind of celebrating or make an effort to remember that day.

The New York Times

Others incorporate giving into Christmas traditions, or make an effort to spread some holiday cheer to the less fortunate.

Cornell University

When any two such companies merge, or make an effort to service customers in cooperation, there is a need for an integrated schema and query mechanism for the interoperability of applications.

Data & Knowledge Engineering

That way, you won't have to remember or make an effort to pay extra.

Forbes

Based on your review, you may make changes to investments, take a loan or make an effort to earn or save more to help you meet future goals.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Many parents would offer support, like tutoring or making an effort to find healthful foods the child will enjoy.

The New York Times

"He never wrote me to congratulate me or made an effort to meet me," Ford said in an interview last year with Bruce Wigo, the chief executive of the International Swimming Hall of Fame.

The New York Times - Sports

The reporters also found that the state had not thoroughly investigated deaths in the system or made an effort to warn care providers about how to avoid similar problems.

The New York Times

If you are coming here, why aren't you doing the work or paying attention or making an effort?' " he said.

Los Angeles Times

Note to self: You never outgrow the desire to go somewhere where everyone knows (or makes an effort to learn) your name.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "or make an effort" to suggest a proactive approach or a deliberate choice to engage in a task, especially when contrasting it with inaction or indifference.

Common error

Avoid using "or make an effort" excessively in formal writing, as it can sometimes sound less sophisticated than alternatives like "or endeavor" or "or strive". Tailor your language to suit the tone and register of the document.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "or make an effort" functions as a conjunctive element, offering an alternative course of action that involves exertion or deliberate action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable, serving to introduce a choice or a suggestion for active engagement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

30%

News & Media

50%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "or make an effort" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that suggests a deliberate action or exertion as an alternative. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is appropriate for use in a wide variety of contexts, from casual conversations to more formal writing. While more sophisticated alternatives exist for highly formal settings, "or make an effort" is versatile and easily understood. Its frequent appearance in news, media, and Wiki sources highlights its broad applicability. When using "or make an effort", ensure it aligns with the intended tone and register of your writing, and consider varying your language with synonyms like "or try" or "or strive" for enhanced style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

or try

This is a simpler and more direct synonym, implying a less committed attempt than the original.

or strive

This alternative offers a more formal and intense sense of dedicated effort compared to the original phrase.

or endeavor

This alternative is more formal and suggests a serious and determined attempt.

or apply oneself

This phrase focuses on directing one's skills and abilities toward a task.

or take action

This phrase shifts the focus to the act of doing something, emphasizing initiative.

or exert oneself

This highlights the physical or mental energy expended in the effort.

or make a point of

This suggests prioritizing or highlighting a specific action or behavior.

or take pains

This suggests careful and meticulous effort, often with attention to detail.

or go to the trouble of

This phrase emphasizes the inconvenience or difficulty involved in making the effort.

or dedicate oneself

This implies a strong commitment and devoted focus.

FAQs

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

You can use "or make an effort" to suggest someone tries to do something, especially when contrasted with not trying at all. For example: "You can choose to ignore the problem, "or make an effort" to find a solution."

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

Some alternatives to "or make an effort" include "or try", "or strive", or "or endeavor", depending on the level of formality required.

Is it better to use "or make an effort" or "and make an effort"?

"Or make an effort" implies a choice between two options, while "and make an effort" suggests adding effort to something already being done. The better choice depends on the intended meaning.

When is it inappropriate to use "or make an effort"?

While generally acceptable, "or make an effort" might sound less refined in highly formal or academic writing. Consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "or endeavor" in those contexts.