Exert Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ช
exert
[ษชษกหzษหt ]
Definitions
physical effort
To exert means to apply physical or mental effort to achieve a result. It often involves using force, strength, or energy to accomplish a task.
Synonyms
apply, exertion, expend, strain.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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exert |
Appropriate when referring to the use of physical or mental energy, particularly when pushing oneself to achieve something specific.
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apply |
Used when referring to the use of a skill, method, or knowledge for a particular purpose or to put something into operation.
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expend |
Typically used when referring to the use of resources such as money, time, or energy, often indicating that these resources are being used up.
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exertion |
This word is often used to describe the act of using effort, often in a physical sense, and typically refers to strenuous effort.
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strain |
Used to refer to physical or mental pressure, stress, or fatigue caused by overexertion. It often has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- He exerted all his strength to lift the heavy weight.
- She exerted herself to finish the project on time.
- The athlete exerted maximum effort to win the race.
influence or control
To exert can also mean to have influence or control over someone or something. It involves using authority or power to make something happen.
Synonyms
command, control, dominate, influence.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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exert |
This word is often used when talking about applying effort, strength, or influence. It implies a considerable amount of energy is being used.
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influence |
Influence is used when having an effect on someone or something without using force, often through persuasion or example.
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control |
Control is used when managing or regulating something or someone. It suggests maintaining order or preventing chaos.
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dominate |
Dominate is often used when exerting power or influence in a very forceful way, often with negative connotations implying oppression or excessive control.
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command |
Command is used when giving orders or directing a situation, often in a military or authoritative context.
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Examples of usage
- The CEO exerts a lot of influence over company decisions.
- The dictator exerted control over the population through fear.
- She exerts a calming influence on her friends.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Exerting effort can lead to increased willpower, which can help achieve goals across various aspects of life.
- Research shows that physical exertion triggers the release of endorphins, creating a sense of happiness and reducing stress.
- Mental exertion can enhance cognitive abilities, as engaging in challenging tasks stimulates brain function.
Education
- In academic settings, students often need to exert effort to comprehend complex materials and succeed.
- Exerting yourself in studies has been positively linked with higher grades and performance in school.
- The concept of 'exerting oneself' is often emphasized in learning to develop resilience and hard work.
Pop Culture
- Sports movies often showcase characters who exert their physical and mental strength to overcome obstacles.
- Songs about perseverance frequently mention exerting effort as key to achieving dreams and goals.
- Video games typically reward players who exert effort to complete tough challenges or levels.
Science
- In physics, exerting a force on an object can result in motion, demonstrating the core principle of Newton's laws.
- Exertion can affect heart rate and respiratory functions, illustrating how our bodies respond to physical challenges.
- Studies in biomechanics examine the types of forces exerted on the body during different physical activities.
Origin of 'exert'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'exserere', which means 'to put forth' or 'to stretch out'.
- Its usage in English dates back to the early 16th century, highlighting a long history of meaning effort.
- Root words like 'ex-' meaning 'out' and 'serere' meaning 'to join together' indicate making something happen.
The word 'exert' originated from the Latin word 'exertus', which means 'push out' or 'put forth'. It first appeared in the English language in the 17th century. Over time, 'exert' has come to be associated with the idea of making a conscious effort to achieve a particular goal or outcome, whether through physical or mental means.
See also: exercise, exerting, exertion, exertiveness, overexert, overexertion.
Word Frequency Rank
At #6,854 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.
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