The phrase "take great efforts" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it in a sentence such as "He was determined to take great efforts to ensure his success."
With a stiff neck, knees that won't bend past 40 degrees and arms that take great effort to hold up, driving would be a chore.
They take great effort, long conversations, and commitment.
Our wide, open eyes also savor the sweetness in a smile and the simple joy that comes with laughter, that simple actions and movement can take great effort,and therefore are a gift.
It does not take great effort to be an observer or onlooker, but our job is to get off the couch or the bar stool, and participate in life's work with all the fervor and passion for that which we were created.
"I was always taking great efforts to cover my tracks.
"The employees have taken great efforts to keep the company solvent.
The FIS recognizes the dangers of traveling at such high speeds and takes great efforts to ensure the safety of its skiers.
But China has also taken great efforts to reform its legal system in recent years, writing important new laws and training thousands of lawyers.
