effort

noun

ef·​fort ˈe-fərt 

-ˌfȯrt

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

Synonyms

• elbow grease
• exertion
• expenditure
• labor
• pains
• sweat
• trouble
• while
• work

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 on the Web

However, thanks to my effort, dedication, and the unwavering support of each one of you, that dream has become a reality. —Andy Biggs, Newsweek, 25 Dec. 2024

At the time, Coplan wouldn’t say much about his team’s efforts to stop U.S. users from betting on elections. —Danielle Chemtob, Forbes, 24 Dec. 2024

Alongside traditional fixtures like the 2,700-pound cast iron chandeliers recreated from original construction drawings and photos with 21st-century energy-efficient lighting, graffiti has been preserved with every effort to find, credit and showcase the artists. —Patrick Sauer, Smithsonian Magazine, 24 Dec. 2024

And the release showed that despite their best efforts, top Republicans could not keep a lid on the report. —Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 24 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, from Old French esforz, esfort, from esforcier to force, from ex- + forcier to force

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing effort

• counter-effort
• make every effort
• spare no effort
• team effort
• war effort
• without effort

Kids Definition

effort

noun

ef·​fort ˈef-ərt 

-ˌȯrt

1

: hard work of mind or body

requires time and effort

2

: a serious attempt : try

made a good effort

3

: something produced by work

this painting was one of my best efforts

4

: the force applied to a simple machine (as a lever) in contrast to the force applied by it against a load