utmost exertion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utmost exertion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the highest level of effort or energy put into a task or activity. Example: "In order to achieve our goals, we must put forth our utmost exertion during this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In Islamic terminology, jihad refers to the spending of one's utmost exertion in the service of God.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

He said: "It is a national evil that any class of Her Majesty's subjects should receive less than a living wage in return for their utmost exertions".

Independent

A little over a century ago, Winston Churchill gave a speech, as president of the Board of Trade, saying: "It is a serious national evil that any class of His Majesty's subjects should receive less than a living wage in return for their utmost exertions".

The Guardian - Opinion

Keeping his ships together, Cornwallis ordered Bellerophon to take up position at the head of his line, later explaining that "The Bellerophon I was glad to keep in some measure as a reserve, having reason at first to suppose there would be full occasion for the utmost exertions of us all .

Wikipedia

Minimum effort, utmost poise.

Vice

Reassurance along with avoidance of triggering factors such as pressure, friction (rubbing or toweling of the lesion), physical exertion, extreme temperature changes, emotional stress, intake of mast cell degranulating agents like aspirin, NSAIDS, morphine, codeine (particularly in cough preparations), alcohol and radio contrast dyes are of utmost importance.

F1000Research

The concept means to strive to the utmost of one's ability, and involves exertion, spirituality, self-purification, and devotion.

Vice

"But exertion?

The Guardian - Sport

The exertion is worthwhile.

The Economist

By his exertion?

The New York Times

She never shirked exertion.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for emphasis, use "utmost exertion" to highlight the significant energy or effort expended, especially in formal or serious contexts. Consider replacing it with simpler alternatives like "maximum effort" in everyday speech for better clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "utmost exertion" in casual or informal conversations. It can sound overly formal or pretentious. Instead, opt for more common phrases like "tried my best" or "put in a lot of effort".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utmost exertion" functions as a noun phrase, where "utmost" modifies the noun "exertion". It describes the highest degree of effort or energy expended. Ludwig shows it used in contexts ranging from describing dedication in religious contexts to physical labor.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utmost exertion" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe the highest degree of effort. As Ludwig confirms, it correctly points out, it is best suited for formal contexts to emphasize dedication or significant energy output. While it may not be the most common phrase, substituting it with alternatives like "maximum effort" can often provide better clarity in more casual settings. This usage guidance, based on a thorough analysis of real-world examples, can help writers effectively incorporate and understand the nuances of "utmost exertion" in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

maximum effort

Focuses on the level of effort applied.

greatest effort

Emphasizes the magnitude of the effort.

maximum strain

Highlights the physical or mental strain involved.

peak effort

Emphasizes achieving the highest point of applied effort.

highest endeavor

Indicates a serious and determined attempt.

fullest application

Focuses on the complete and dedicated use of one's abilities.

complete dedication

Emphasizes devotion to a task or goal.

extreme endeavor

Highlights the intensity and ambition of an undertaking.

utmost commitment

Focuses on dedication and resolve.

total dedication

Emphasizes the holistic nature of dedication.

FAQs

How can I use "utmost exertion" in a sentence?

You can use "utmost exertion" to describe a situation where someone has applied a maximum level of effort or energy to a task. For example, "The success of this project requires our "utmost exertion"."

What are some alternatives to "utmost exertion"?

Alternatives include phrases like "maximum effort", "greatest effort", or "peak performance". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "utmost exertion"?

It's appropriate to use "utmost exertion" in formal or serious contexts where you want to emphasize the high level of effort applied. It might not be the best choice for casual conversation.

What's the difference between "utmost exertion" and "maximum effort"?

While similar, "utmost exertion" implies a greater degree of physical or mental energy being expended compared to the more general term "maximum effort". "Maximum effort" simply indicates the highest level of effort, without necessarily implying strain or intensity.