effort in WordNet English dictionary

1. earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something
   "made an effort to cover all the reading material"; "wished him luck in his endeavor"; "she gave it a good try"
   attempt  effort  endeavor  endeavour  try 
   
2. a series of actions advancing a principle or tending toward a particular end
   "he supported populist campaigns"; "they worked in the cause of world peace"; "the team was ready for a drive toward the pennant"; "the movement to end slavery"; "contributed to the war effort"
   campaign  cause  crusade  drive  movement  effort 
   
3. use of physical or mental energy; hard work
   "he got an A for effort"; "they managed only with great exertion"
   effort  elbow grease  exertion  travail  sweat 
   
4. a notable achievement
   "he performed a great feat"; "the book was her finest effort"
   feat  effort  exploit