Singular "Effort": Abstract and General
When "effort" refers to the abstract concept of "effort" as a whole, or generalized付出的努力, it functions as an uncountable noun and takes the singular form. This usage emphasizes the collective or continuous nature of effort, without specifying individual instances.For example:
- "Achieving goals requires consistent effort over time."
- "Her success stems from the effort she put into every detail."
Here, "effort" is singular because it denotes a broad, ongoing commitment rather than a single act.
Plural "Efforts": Specific and Individual
In contrast, "effort" becomes countable and uses plural "efforts" when it refers to specific, individual attempts or actions. This applies when describing distinct, separate instances of trying, often with a number or quantifier.For example:
- "They made three efforts to negotiate, but all failed."
- "His repeated efforts to improve finally paid off."
Here, "efforts" highlights multiple, discrete attempts, each with its own context or outcome.
"Make Great" with "Effort": Singular as the Norm
The phrase "make great" pairs most naturally with the singular form of "effort". "Make great effort" (or "make a great effort") conveys the idea of a significant, concentrated amount of overall effort, focusing on the intensity rather than the number of attempts.For example:
- "The team made great effort to meet the deadline."
- "She made a great effort to understand the complex theory."
While "make great efforts" is grammatically possible (referring to multiple significant attempts), "make great effort" is far more common in daily usage, as it emphasizes the magnitude of the collective effort rather than segmented actions.
In summary, "effort" uses singular for abstract, general effort and plural for specific, individual attempts. When paired with "make great," singular remains the primary choice to express substantial, unified effort. Mastering these nuances ensures precise and natural communication.