sustained efforts

USAGE SUMMARY

'sustained efforts' is a correct usage in written English.
You can use the phrase to refer to an effort that is ongoing and maintained in order to reach a goal. For example, "The team made sustained efforts to launch the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

PwC insisted that Alteri had made "sustained efforts" to rescue Brantano.

The Guardian - Business

With our sustained efforts, people have stopped taking and offering dowries in our village.

The Guardian

But it will take sustained efforts and huge spending over many years to keep them satisfied.

The Economist

None made any sustained efforts to deal with the Roma problem.

The Economist

Elsewhere, the sustained efforts by Ms. MacLaine and the screenwriter, David Ciminello, to play with stereotypes seem clumsy, even quaint.

The New York Times

Dengue fever is being kept at bay in the Florida Keys only by the sustained efforts of health officials.

The Guardian

Deborah Jack, chief executive of the National Aids Trust, said: "Changing attitudes requires long-term and sustained efforts.

The Guardian

Despite sustained efforts to establish the running game, LeSean McCoy mustered just 50 yards on 17 carries.

The Guardian - Sport

A dyspeptic martinet enfeebled by numerous ailments, Bragg could plan well, but lacked the stamina needed for sustained efforts.

The New York Times

One can be sure that if Cambodia had been a more formidable power, sustained efforts at diplomacy would have been made.

The New Yorker

The rates for Rhode Island, Wisconsin and Iowa, which have made sustained efforts to expand coverage, were similar to the figure in Minnesota.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing long-term projects or goals, use "sustained efforts" to highlight the importance of consistent and ongoing work. For example, "Achieving climate neutrality requires "sustained efforts" from all sectors of society."

Common error

Avoid using "sustained efforts" when describing short-term or sporadic activities. The phrase implies a long-term, continuous commitment. For example, it would be incorrect to say "The team made "sustained efforts" to complete the one-day task."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sustained efforts" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a verb. It describes the act of continuously working towards a goal. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

27%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sustained efforts" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that emphasizes the need for continuous and persistent action to achieve a specific goal. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is considered a correct and effective expression. While suitable for various contexts, it's most commonly found in news, scientific, and formal business writing. To ensure proper usage, remember that the phrase implies a long-term commitment and should not be used for short-term activities. Consider alternatives such as "persistent endeavors" or "ongoing dedication" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Persistent endeavors

Emphasizes unwavering commitment and determination.

Continuous exertion

Highlights the ongoing expenditure of energy.

Ongoing dedication

Focuses on the consistent commitment to a cause or activity.

Unrelenting push

Suggests a forceful and continuous attempt to achieve something.

Prolonged activity

Indicates an extended period of engagement in a particular task.

Steadfast application

Highlights the consistent and unwavering focus of effort.

Consistent work

Stresses the regularity and dependability of the efforts.

Dedicated action

Emphasizes commitment and purposeful activity.

Tenacious pursuit

Focuses on a determined and persistent effort to achieve a goal.

Constant striving

Suggests a continuous and earnest effort to achieve a desired outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "sustained efforts" in a sentence?

You can use "sustained efforts" to describe ongoing and consistent work towards a specific goal. For example, "Sustained efforts are required to improve public health."

What are some alternatives to "sustained efforts"?

Alternatives include "persistent endeavors", "continuous exertion", or "ongoing dedication" depending on the context.

What distinguishes "sustained efforts" from "one-time effort"?

"Sustained efforts" implies a prolonged commitment, while "one-time effort" refers to a single instance of work. The former is used for long-term goals; the latter, for immediate tasks.

Is it appropriate to use "sustained efforts" in informal writing?

While "sustained efforts" is suitable for formal contexts, you might prefer simpler alternatives like "consistent work" or "ongoing dedication" in informal settings.