Definition

1. Verb:
   • To apply or bring to bear (a force, influence, or quality): To use something, such as power, authority, or effort, to achieve a particular effect.
   • To make a strenuous physical or mental effort: To put oneself into vigorous action; to strive.

Usage

• The verb "exert" is typically followed by a direct object, such as "force," "influence," "pressure," "authority," or "oneself."
• It describes the active application of something abstract (like power) or a significant personal effort.

Examples

• Applying force or influence:
  • The manager had to exert her authority to get the project back on track.
  • The new policy will exert pressure on companies to reduce emissions.
• Making a strenuous effort:
  • You need to exert yourself more during the training sessions to see improvement.
  • He exerted all his strength to move the heavy box.

Advanced Usage

• "to exert control over": To actively use power to direct or manage something.
  • The government sought to exert greater control over the media.
• "to exert a profound influence/effect on": To have a strong and deep impact on someone or something.
  • Her teacher exerted a profound influence on her choice of career.

Variants and Related Words

• Exertion (noun): The physical or mental effort involved in doing something.
  • He was panting from the exertion of climbing the stairs.

Synonyms

• Apply: To put to use, especially for a particular purpose.
• Wield: To hold and use (a weapon or tool), or to have and be able to use (power or influence).
• Exercise: To use or apply (a faculty, right, or influence).
• Strain: To make an intense effort.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Exert oneself: To make a strenuous physical or mental effort. This is the primary phrasal construction with "exert."
  • She exerted herself to finish the marathon.

Verb

1. make a great effort at a mental or physical task
   • exert oneself
2. have and exercise
   • wield power and authority
3. put to use
   • exert one's power or influence