sole endeavour

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sole endeavour" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize that something is the only effort or attempt being made towards a particular goal or task. Example: "Her sole endeavour was to complete the project on time, despite the numerous challenges she faced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

It started out as a sideline but it is now our sole endeavour and supports our family of four.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Roger, wheels stopped, Endeavour.

The New York Times - Science

Endeavour is their Mystery".

The New York Times - Books

And sole.

The New York Times

Revolution is a risky endeavour.

The Economist

It was Endeavour.

The Guardian

Endeavour had some reward.

The Guardian - Sport

Quality above endeavour.

The Guardian - Sport

Now, Endeavour (ITV1).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Music is my principal endeavour".

Independent

The school buzzes with endeavour.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sole endeavour" to clearly emphasize that a particular activity is someone's only or primary focus, especially when other potential distractions or alternatives exist.

Common error

Avoid using "sole endeavour" when describing something that is merely a significant part of a larger effort, rather than the only effort being made. Ensure it accurately reflects the exclusivity of the activity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sole endeavour" functions as a noun phrase that emphasizes the singular and exclusive nature of an effort or undertaking. It highlights that a particular activity is the only one being pursued, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sole endeavour" is a grammatically correct and relatively rare phrase used to emphasize that something is the only effort being made. Ludwig examples show it appearing mostly in News & Media sources. While the phrase is clear and effective, remember that it denotes exclusivity, not just primary importance. When you want to emphasize that something is the main effort, but not necessarily the only one, use different wording. The related phrases offers alternatives such as "only undertaking", "primary focus" or "singular pursuit".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

only undertaking

Replaces "endeavour" with "undertaking", emphasizing the commitment to a task.

primary focus

Shifts from the effort itself to the area of main concentration.

singular pursuit

Highlights the single-minded dedication to a specific goal.

exclusive aim

Indicates that there is no other goal but this one.

chief objective

Focuses on the most important goal to be achieved.

main occupation

Emphasizes the activity that takes up most of one's time.

only activity

Simplifies the phrase to denote a single, ongoing action.

principal enterprise

Uses a more formal term for a significant project or undertaking.

unique attempt

Highlights the singularity of the try or effort.

single venture

Replaces "endeavour" with "venture", suggesting a potentially risky or daring undertaking.

FAQs

How can I use "sole endeavour" in a sentence?

You can use "sole endeavour" to describe a situation where someone's main or only effort is directed towards a specific goal. For example, "Her sole endeavour was to finish her degree."

What are some alternatives to "sole endeavour"?

Some alternatives include "only undertaking", "primary focus", or "singular pursuit". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "sole endeavour" in formal writing?

Yes, "sole endeavour" is appropriate for formal writing. It clearly and precisely conveys the idea of a singular, dedicated effort, and is acceptable in formal or business context.

What's the difference between "sole endeavour" and "main effort"?

"Sole endeavour" implies that it is the only effort being made. "Main effort" suggests it is the primary effort, but other efforts may also be present.