make an effort
Put in work
To make an effort is to try, especially when the task requires exertion or determination: At least make an effort to be polite.
The phrase often implies that success isn't guaranteed but the attempt matters: She made an effort to understand his point of view.
It can also carry reproach—suggesting someone isn't trying hard enough: You could make an effort.
- tryMake an effort
- attemptEffort to accomplish
- striveMake sustained effort
- persevereContinue despite obstacles
- push throughContinue despite resistance
give it a shot · exert · have a go · buckle down · put in the work · endeavor · persist · elbow grease · take pains · struggle · toil · bear down · dig deep · go the extra mile · go for it · hustle · step up · turn over a new leaf
- try phrasesgive it a shot, take a stab, have a go, try your luck, give it a whirl
make an effortdo nothing
Remain inactive deliberately
sit back · slack off · phone it in · loaf · vegetate
make an effortgive up
Stop attempting something
quit · surrender · throw in the towel · capitulate · stop trying
make an effortcoast
Land beside the ocean
cruise · drift · glide · take it easy · rest on one's laurels
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