we can make an effort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we can make an effort" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when suggesting that you or a group is willing to try or put in work towards a goal. Example: "If we want to improve our results, we can make an effort to collaborate more effectively." Alternative expressions include "we can try" and "we can put in the work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"Or we can make an effort, as Martin Luther King did, to understand and to comprehend, and to replace that violence, that stain of bloodshed that has spread across our land, with an effort to understand with compassion and love".

The New York Times

I believe that amongst all of us we can make an effort to find the main route to the positive development of the control of human rights within the European Union.

EU Parlament

Although we can't all live as Casey does, we can make an effort to.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

We can help you if you can make an effort to help secure the area".

The New York Times - Magazine

It shows you can be bothered, you can make an effort".

Independent

But if a stupid, ignorant American like myself can make an effort to learn a little french, then so should anglophone Quebeckers and other Canadians who move here.

Vice

There are ways that they can make an effort to experience life like a child in order to bring more fun and enjoyment into their lives.

Huffington Post

You can make an effort to make eye contact during conversations.

WikiHow

You can make an effort to reach out to that woman with love.

WikiHow

But you can make an effort to miss the person less.

WikiHow

But you can make an effort to include her into the gang every once in a while.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we can make an effort", ensure it's followed by a clear and specific action or goal to provide context and direction.

Common error

Avoid using "we can make an effort" without specifying what that effort entails; otherwise, it sounds like an empty promise. Be explicit about the actions you intend to take.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we can make an effort" functions as an expression of intent or suggestion of action. It indicates a willingness or capability to exert effort toward a specific goal. Ludwig examples showcase its usage in various contexts, from securing areas to understanding societal issues.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we can make an effort" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express willingness or capability to work towards a goal. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not extremely common, the phrase appears in diverse contexts, including News & Media and Wiki articles, indicating a neutral register. To maximize clarity, ensure that the effort is clearly defined. Consider alternatives like "we can try" or "we can strive to" to adjust the level of commitment conveyed. The phrase is well-regarded for its expression of intent and proactive approach.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we can strive to

Emphasizes the exertion and dedication involved in the effort.

we can endeavor to

Formal and emphasizes a serious and determined effort.

we could try

Suggests a lower degree of commitment compared to a definite effort.

we can work towards

Focuses on the process and direction of the effort.

we might attempt

Implies uncertainty about the success of the effort.

we can apply ourselves to

Emphasizes active engagement and hard work.

we can dedicate ourselves to

Highlights the commitment and focus of the group.

we can take steps to

Focuses on concrete actions and progress.

we can join forces to

Highlights a collaborative attempt or joint effort.

we can take action

Emphasizes immediate response and initiation.

FAQs

How can I use "we can make an effort" in a sentence?

You can use "we can make an effort" to express a willingness to try or work towards a specific goal. For example, "If we want to improve our customer satisfaction, "we can make an effort" to respond to inquiries more quickly."

What are some alternatives to "we can make an effort"?

Some alternatives include "we can try", "we can strive to", or "we can work towards" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "we will make an effort" or "we can make an effort"?

"We will make an effort" implies a stronger commitment and certainty than "we can make an effort", which suggests a possibility or willingness to try. The best choice depends on the level of commitment you want to convey.

What's the difference between "we can make an effort" and "we should make an effort"?

"We can make an effort" expresses capability or willingness, whereas "we should make an effort" suggests a moral or practical obligation. The latter implies that making the effort is the right or sensible thing to do.