English Reference

Word

endeavor

Phoneticsen·deav·or, stress on the second syllable

/ɪnˈdɛvɝ/

UK spelling · endeavour

Definitions

01a serious effort

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Formal

n. a serious and determined effort to achieve something.

n. a sincere and industrious attempt to accomplish a specific goal or task.

“The space program was a massive scientific endeavor that took years of planning.”

“The restoration of the ancient cathedral was a collaborative endeavor involving historians, architects, and local craftsmen.”

Antonyms

inactivityidleness

02to try hard

C1 · Advanced Formal

v. to try very hard to do something.

v. to exert oneself with purpose; to make a strenuous effort to achieve an objective.

“We will endeavor to finish the project before the deadline.”

“The diplomat promised to endeavor to resolve the conflict through peaceful negotiations despite the rising tensions.”

Usage

Often followed by an infinitive ('to' + verb).

Teaching tip

This verb is much more formal than 'try' or 'attempt'; it is best reserved for professional or academic writing.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Real-World Examples

“The Maha Center, which organized the event, is one of many Maha-affiliated endeavors headed by Tony Lyons, a longtime vaccine critic, who has paid Kennedy $4m in the past year.”
The Guardian 4 Oct 2026
“The faithful sometimes offer money to the preachers to support their endeavours.”
BBC News 3 Oct 2026
“This includes both the freedom to pursue important personal projects and goals, and to pursue joint projects such as business endeavors .”
The Conversation 18 Sept 2026
“And raising the profile of her work would also change the picture of a family where typically women supported the men in their creative endeavours.”
The Guardian 15 Sept 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference