Definition of effort
1 : conscious exertion of power : hard work a job requiring time and effort
2 : a serious attempt : try making an effort to reduce costs
3 : something produced by exertion or trying the novel was her most ambitious effort
4 : effective force as distinguished from the possible resistance called into action by such a force
5 : the total work done to achieve a particular end the war effort
Explore M-W
Examples of effort in a Sentence
He put a lot of effort into finishing the project on time.
It wasn't easy, but it was worth the effort.
We need to expend more effort.
The job will require a great deal of time and effort.
Our success is due to the combined efforts of many people.
Her efforts were rewarded with a new contract.
He lost the campaign despite the best efforts of his supporters.
Even though they didn't win, the team made a good effort.
Her early efforts at writing a novel were awkward.
Despite my best efforts, I never found out who she was.
Recent Examples of effort from the Web
-
On July 12th PiS stepped up its effort to subjugate the legal system to politicians’ control with two new laws.
-
But like the GOP’s health care repeal and replace efforts and its moribund hopes to boost infrastructure, the GOP budget outline faces opposition from both wings of the party.
-
The tent is part of his administration's efforts to bring more visitors to the city and create more recreation areas for residents.
-
Brooks said the plaques are also a way for Rancho Bernardans to support the foundation’s charitable efforts in the community without becoming a foundation member.
-
These numbers comport with numerous other investigations which have found that forfeiture efforts tend to target poor neighborhoods.
-
The success or the usefulness of ClinicalTrials.gov depend on whether investigators and sponsors make a diligent effort to submit complete and accurate information.
-
This was simply a light-hearted display of athleticism in an effort to not push his way through dozens of reporters.
-
Now, lawmakers may permit an unprecedented effort to prosecute a sitting chief executive.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'effort.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of effort
Middle French, from Old French esforz, esfort, from esforcier to force, from ex- + forcier to force
EFFORT Defined for English Language Learners
effort
playDefinition of effort for English Language Learners
-
: work done by the mind or body : energy used to do something
-
: a serious attempt to do something
-
: something produced by work
EFFORT Defined for Kids
Learn More about effort
-
See words that rhyme with effort Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for effort Spanish Central: Translation of effort Nglish: Translation of effort for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of effort for Arabic speakers
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up effort? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!