Endeavors Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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endeavors

[ɪnˈdɛvərz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

business

Efforts to achieve a particular goal, typically involving a lot of time, hard work, and determination.

Synonyms

efforts, initiatives, undertakings.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
endeavors

Use this word to describe serious or significant attempts to achieve something, often involving considerable effort or planning.

  • She embarked on scientific endeavors to find a cure for the disease
  • His endeavors in the field of education have been widely recognized
efforts

This word is appropriate for general attempts to accomplish tasks or goals, typically emphasizing the physical or mental energy put into the task.

  • Despite his efforts, he couldn't finish the project on time
  • Her efforts to improve her skills paid off in the end
undertakings

This word is suitable for describing formal projects or tasks that are often large in scope or complexity, with a sense of commitment or responsibility.

  • The construction of the bridge was a massive undertaking
  • Starting a new business is a serious undertaking that requires careful planning
initiatives

Use 'initiatives' when referring to new plans or strategies aimed at achieving a goal or resolving issues, often implying a proactive approach.

  • The government launched new initiatives to combat unemployment
  • Community initiatives have significantly improved the neighborhood

Examples of usage

  • She is determined to succeed in her endeavors.
  • Their team put a lot of effort into their entrepreneurial endeavors.
Context #2 | Verb

formal

To try hard to do or achieve something.

Synonyms

aim, attempt, strive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
endeavors

Used when referring to serious or determined efforts towards a goal, often in professional, academic, or formal contexts.

  • The research team is engaged in numerous scientific endeavors
  • We must support their endeavors to make a difference in the community
attempt

Used when referring to the act of trying to do something, especially something difficult. It often implies that success is uncertain.

  • She made an attempt to fix the broken machine
  • Despite his best attempts, the project failed
strive

Used when referring to making a great effort to achieve something, often suggesting continuous and diligent work.

  • They strive for excellence in all their projects
  • He strives to maintain balance between work and life
aim

Used when referring to the goal or objective that someone wants to achieve. It is often used in a general or casual context.

  • Her aim is to become a doctor
  • He always has the aim of improving his skills

Examples of usage

  • She endeavors to provide the best customer service.
  • They endeavored to find a solution to the problem.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Inspirational Figures

  • Famous individuals like Thomas Edison are known for their endeavors in invention, famously stating that genius is 1% inspiration and 99% perspiration.
  • Marie Curie's scientific endeavors broke new ground in radioactivity, leading to two Nobel Prizes.
  • Nelson Mandela's endeavors in fighting against apartheid showcased the power of perseverance in achieving social justice.

Cultural Significance

  • In literature, characters often embark on great endeavors that symbolize their personal growth or quests for knowledge.
  • Many cultures celebrate the idea of endeavor through festivals that honor hard work and determination, such as harvest festivals.
  • Proverbs around the world emphasize the value of endeavoring, showing that effort is universally respected.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people who set specific goals and endeavor to achieve them often experience greater happiness and satisfaction.
  • The concept of 'grit', the passion and perseverance for long-term goals, closely aligns with the idea of endeavoring.
  • Cognitive-behavioral theories suggest that effortful endeavors can reshape one's mindset, fostering resilience and growth.

Education

  • In academic settings, educators encourage students to endeavor beyond their comfort zones to develop critical thinking skills.
  • Collaborative projects often require students to endeavor together, teaching the importance of teamwork and shared objectives.
  • Educational systems around the world highlight endeavor as a key component of learning, emphasizing effort over innate ability.

Origin of 'endeavors'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old French 'endever', meaning to 'put in effort' or 'to work hard'.
  • In Middle English, it evolved to 'endever', signifying the act of striving or attempting.
  • The prefix 'en-' means 'to cause to be', while 'deavor', from Latin, means 'to work'.

The word 'endeavors' originated from the Old French word 'en-,' meaning 'in' or 'towards,' and 'dever,' meaning 'duty' or 'action.' Over time, it evolved into the Middle English word 'endeveren,' which eventually became 'endeavor' in Modern English. The term has been used to denote efforts and actions towards achieving specific goals, reflecting the human drive for progress and success.


See also: endeavoring, endeavour.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,643, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.