strenuous effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strenuous effort" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant amount of physical or mental exertion put into a task or activity. Example: "Completing the marathon required a strenuous effort, but the sense of accomplishment made it worthwhile."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Nonetheless, the strenuous effort being poured into "C'mon LeBron" raises a question.

The New York Times

There is a strenuous effort, in certain conservative circles, to take it seriously.

The New Yorker

public use unless the owner can prove he made a strenuous effort to keep the public out.

The New Yorker

But certainly Ms. Geller's various Web sites offer no evidence of them, despite a strenuous effort to do so.

The New York Times

He parsed every question for traps, but the strenuous effort to avoid mistakes only made him seem anxious and defensive.

The New Yorker

So much strenuous effort, and never, ever a week when all the women being so assiduously courted are available.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Because the smile bore evidence of this strenuous effort," Mr. Gao says, "it also sometimes resembled crying".

The New York Times - Books

The rally was the result of 2 weeks of strenuous effort by high-school students to organize a demonstration of their own.

The New Yorker

Mr. Fleisher, after decades of strenuous effort and treatment, regained control of his right hand and has resumed performing with both hands.

The New York Times - Arts

When we fight an urge, it feels like a strenuous effort, as if there were a homunculus in the head that physically impinged on a persistent antagonist.

The New York Times - Books

The piano's ivories can't be tickled, and the architectonic walker can't be moved without strenuous effort, but the invitation is there.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strenuous effort" to underscore the intensity and difficulty of an undertaking, whether physical or mental. It effectively conveys the significant energy expended.

Common error

While "strenuous effort" is widely applicable, avoid using it in overly casual situations where simpler phrases like "hard work" or "big push" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strenuous effort" functions as a noun phrase where "strenuous" modifies the noun "effort". It describes the nature of the effort, indicating it is demanding and requires significant energy. Ludwig AI validates its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strenuous effort" is a widely used and grammatically correct phrase that effectively conveys the high level of exertion required for a task. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across various contexts. Its frequency in News & Media and Scientific sources highlights its applicability in formal and professional settings. While synonyms like "arduous endeavor" and "vigorous exertion" exist, "strenuous effort" remains a strong and direct way to emphasize the demanding nature of an activity. When employing this phrase, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing to ensure it aligns with the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

arduous endeavor

Replaces 'effort' with 'endeavor', implying a more formal and sustained undertaking. 'Arduous' emphasizes the difficulty.

vigorous exertion

Substitutes 'strenuous' with 'vigorous' and 'effort' with 'exertion', highlighting the energy and force involved.

intense application

Focuses on the concentrated focus and dedication involved in the effort.

determined push

Implies a resolute and forceful attempt to achieve a goal, with emphasis on overcoming obstacles.

concerted attempt

Highlights a planned and coordinated effort, often involving multiple individuals.

laborious task

Shifts the focus to the task itself being demanding and requiring significant labor.

energetic campaign

Suggests a focused and spirited effort towards a specific goal, often in a competitive context.

diligent work

Emphasizes the consistent and careful attention applied to the task.

taxing undertaking

Highlights the demanding and potentially draining nature of the effort.

ambitious project

Focuses on the scale and challenge of the task, suggesting a significant commitment of resources.

FAQs

How can I use "strenuous effort" in a sentence?

You can use "strenuous effort" to describe a task that requires a lot of energy and determination. For example, "Climbing Mount Everest requires a "strenuous effort"" or "The project demanded a "strenuous effort" from the entire team".

What are some synonyms for "strenuous effort"?

Alternatives to "strenuous effort" include "arduous endeavor", "vigorous exertion", or "intense application". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "strenuous effort" or "hard work"?

"Strenuous effort" and "hard work" are similar but not interchangeable. "Strenuous effort" emphasizes the intensity and difficulty of the work, while "hard work" is a more general term. Use "strenuous effort" when you want to highlight the demanding nature of the task.

What's the difference between "strenuous effort" and "persistent effort"?

"Strenuous effort" focuses on the intensity of the exertion, while "persistent effort" emphasizes the continuous and unwavering nature of the attempt. One might involve short bursts of intense activity, the other long-term consistent dedication.