Exert: meaning, definitions and examples

💪

Add to dictionary

exert

[ɪɡˈzəːt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

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
exert	Appropriate when referring to the use of physical or mental energy, particularly when pushing oneself to achieve something specific. He had to exert a lot of effort to lift the heavy object She will need to exert her influence to get the project approved
apply	Used when referring to the use of a skill, method, or knowledge for a particular purpose or to put something into operation. You should apply the knowledge you gained from this course to the new project He decided to apply for the job opening at the firm
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. The company decided to expend significant funds on research and development She did not want to expend all her energy on one task
exertion	This word is often used to describe the act of using effort, often in a physical sense, and typically refers to strenuous effort. After the marathon, he was exhausted from the exertion The task required significant mental exertion
strain	Used to refer to physical or mental pressure, stress, or fatigue caused by overexertion. It often has a negative connotation. Lifting those heavy boxes caused a strain on his back The constant deadlines are putting a strain on the team

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.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

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
exert	This word is often used when talking about applying effort, strength, or influence. It implies a considerable amount of energy is being used. He had to exert a lot of effort to lift the heavy box She exerted influence over the team to get the project done
influence	Influence is used when having an effect on someone or something without using force, often through persuasion or example. His advice had a major influence on my decision She uses her platform to influence public opinion
control	Control is used when managing or regulating something or someone. It suggests maintaining order or preventing chaos. He tried to control his emotions during the meeting The government controls the flow of information
dominate	Dominate is often used when exerting power or influence in a very forceful way, often with negative connotations implying oppression or excessive control. He dominated the conversation, not letting anyone else speak The large corporation dominates the market, leaving little room for small businesses
command	Command is used when giving orders or directing a situation, often in a military or authoritative context. The captain commanded the soldiers to advance She has the ability to command respect from her peers

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "exert" in other languages:

🇵🇹 exercer

🇮🇳 प्रयास करना

🇩🇪 ausüben

🇮🇩 mengusahakan

🇺🇦 застосовувати

🇵🇱 wywierać

🇯🇵 行使する

🇫🇷 exercer

🇪🇸 ejercer

🇹🇷 uygulamak

🇰🇷 행사하다

🇸🇦 يمارس

🇨🇿 vykonávat

🇸🇰 vykonávať

🇨🇳 行使

🇸🇮 izvajati

🇮🇸 beita

🇰🇿 қолдану

🇬🇪 გამოყენება

🇦🇿 tətbiq etmək

🇲🇽 ejercer

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.

...
6851 casing
6852 introductory
6853 supplier
6854 exert
6855 permissible
6856 towers
6857 fearful
...