take pains
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Verb phrase: - To make a very careful and conscientious effort; to try extremely hard to do something correctly or well.
Usage
This phrase emphasizes putting in significant effort, attention, and care to achieve a good result. It is often used to describe meticulous work or a strong desire to avoid mistakes. - Common Structure: take pains to + [verb] / take pains with + [noun].
Examples
- The architect took pains to ensure every detail of the design was perfect.
- She takes great pains with her handwriting, making each letter beautifully clear.
- He took considerable pains to explain the complex procedure to the new trainees.
Advanced Usage
- "take great pains": An intensified form, stressing an exceptionally high level of effort and care.
- The researcher took great pains to verify every single data point.
- "take considerable pains": Similar to "great pains," indicating a substantial and noticeable effort.
- "take the pains": A less common but acceptable variant.
- He was kind enough to take the pains of helping me move.
Variants and Related Words
- Painstaking (adj): Showing or characterized by great care and effort.
- She did a painstaking analysis of the report.
- Painstakingly (adv): In a very careful and thorough way.
- The document was painstakingly reviewed.
Synonyms
- Strive: To make great efforts.
- Endeavor: To try hard to do or achieve something.
- Go to great lengths: To try very hard, often involving extra steps.
- Be meticulous: To show great attention to detail.
Related Idioms
- Leave no stone unturned: To do everything possible to find something or solve a problem. This idiom shares the sense of exhaustive effort but is broader in application than the focused care implied by "take pains."
Verb
- try very hard to do something