1 [U,C] the physical or mental energy that you need to do sth; sth that takes a lot of energy:
You should put more effort into your work. * A lot of effort has gone into making this event a success. * The company has invested a great deal of time and effort in setting up new training schemes. * It's a long climb to the top, but well worth the effort. * Getting up this morning was quite an effort (= it was difficult). * (BrE) With (an) effort (= with difficulty) she managed to stop herself laughing.
2 [C] ~ (to do sth) an attempt to do sth especially when it is difficult to do:
to make a determined / real / special effort to finish on time * The company has laid off 150 workers in an effort to save money. * I didn't really feel like going out, but I am glad I made the effort. * The local clubs are making every effort to interest more young people. * We need to make a concerted effort to finish on time. * I spent hours cleaning the house, but there isn't much to show for all my efforts. * With an effort of will he resisted the temptation. * The prospect was a joint / group effort.
3 [C] (usually after a noun) a particular activity that a group of people organize in order to achieve sth:
the Russian space effort * the United Nations' peacekeeping effort
4 [C] the result of an attempt to do sth:
I'm afraid this essay is a poor effort.
IDIOMS see BENDv.
