effort

Beginner

Definition

Physical or mental exertion applied to accomplish a task or goal; the amount of work or energy dedicated to trying. Can be used both as a noun and informally as a critique of something attempted.

Example Usage

Good effort on the project, but we need to revise the presentation before tomorrow.

Origin

From Old French 'effort,' derived from 'esforcer' (to force), tracing back to Latin roots.

Fun Fact

The phrase 'good effort' has become a catch-all compliment for situations where the outcome wasn't ideal but the person tried hard.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)