Definition

Verb phrase: - To make a very deliberate and considerable effort to do or achieve something; to try extremely hard, often with careful attention to detail or correctness.

Usage

This phrase is used to emphasize that someone is taking great care or putting in significant effort to accomplish a task, explain something clearly, or ensure something is done correctly. It often implies a sense of obligation or a desire to avoid misunderstanding or error. It is typically followed by an infinitive ("to do") or a clause starting with "to make sure," "to point out," etc.

Examples

• The teacher was at pains to explain the complex theory in simple terms.
• The company is at pains to ensure all its products are ethically sourced.
• He was at pains to point out that his comments were not a criticism of the team's effort.
• She was at pains to make everyone feel welcome at the event.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can be used in various tenses by conjugating the verb "be" (e.g., am/is/are at pains, was/were at pains, will be at pains).
• It is often used in formal or written contexts to describe conscientious effort.

Variants and Related Words

• Take pains (to do something): A very similar verb phrase with the same core meaning of making a careful effort.
  • Example: She took great pains to get every detail right.

Synonyms

• Take great care (to)
• Go to great lengths (to)
• Make a special effort (to)
• Endeavor
• Strive

Related Idioms

• Bend over backwards (to do something): To try extremely hard to help or please someone. (This has a stronger connotation of accommodating others.)
  • Example: He bent over backwards to meet their demands.
• Leave no stone unturned: To try every possible course of action in order to achieve something.
  • Example: The researchers left no stone unturned in their search for a cure.

Verb

1. try very hard to do something