put in extra effort

/pʊt ɪn ˈɛkstrə ˈɛfɚt/
phrase★Intermediate
◆ What It Really Means
The phrase conveys the idea of making a conscious decision to invest more time, energy, or focus into a task or goal.
Literal Meaning
To physically or mentally contribute additional work or energy beyond what is normally expected.
Literal Breakdown
put into insert or contribute+extraadditional+effortwork or energy expended
◇ Mental Image
The mental image is of someone working harder or longer than usual, perhaps staying late at work or dedicating extra time to a project.
◈ When to Use
A manager might say to their team, 'We need to put in extra effort this week to meet the client's deadline.'
◉ Cultural Note
This phrase reflects cultural values of hard work, dedication, and going above and beyond in many professional and personal settings.
informal

To exert additional time, energy, or focus beyond what is normally required to achieve a goal or complete a task.

She put in extra effort to meet the project deadline.

He put in extra effort to improve his grades.

💡

This phrase is commonly used in both personal and professional contexts to describe going above and beyond normal expectations.

Collocations

put in extra effort toTo make an additional effort for a specific purpose.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

go the extra milephrase
To make a special effort to do more than is required
work overtimephrase
To work beyond the usual hours

💡Pro Tip

Usage Tip

Use this phrase to acknowledge or encourage someone's dedication to a task or goal.

⚡Gold Rule

Rule of Thumb

This phrase is positive and should be used to highlight effort, not to criticize lack of effort.

📖Word Origin

The phrase combines the verb 'put in' (to contribute) with 'extra effort' (additional work or energy), reflecting the idea of dedicating more than usual to a task.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is versatile and can be used in various contexts, from academic settings to workplace environments. It emphasizes dedication and commitment.

Word Breakdown

put in
to contribute or dedicate
phrase
+
extra effort
additional work or energy
phrase
English Dictionary