effort

[ef-ert] / ˈɛf ərt /

NOUN

work, exertion

Synonyms

STRONGEST

achievement attempt battle creation endeavor exercise force industry intention power production push resolution struggle training

STRONG

accomplishment act aim application aspiration crack deed discipline drill energy enterprise essay feat fling go job labor pains product pull purpose shot spurt stab strain stress stretch strife striving sweat tension toil travail trial trouble try tug undertaking venture whack

WEAK

elbow grease old college try

Antonyms

STRONGEST

destruction idleness incompetence laziness ruin weakness

STRONG

abstention entertainment failure fun happiness inactivity neglect peace relaxation unemployment

WEAK

hesitation passivity

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Gulf nations that have drones and surveillance platforms could also assist the effort.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026

He then doubled their lead in the 29th minute when his effort took a deflection off Leny Yoro on its way past Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

While satisfied that he had won, Cook was upset at the time and effort it had taken him to prove his case.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026

Made in under a minute with zero effort, you have something elegant, versatile, and utterly delicious.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

I’d rather be outside with the men, rounding up the goats and cooping the chickens for the night, feeling hot inside my coat from the effort as my breath fogs out in the cold.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy

Vocabulary lists containing effort

Can I Work It? Words for "Job"

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Stay Strong: Forc and Fort

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"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, Chapters 20–25

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