exert

4 definitions • 9 examples

to use something such as authority, power, influence, etc. in order to make something happen:

exert your influence If you were to exert your influence they might change their decision.

exert pressure on Some managers exert considerable pressure on their staff to work extra hours without being paid.

to make a mental or physical effort:

I was too tired to exert myself.

Try not to exert yourself while you are recovering - it could set you back.

Apart from the odd yoga class, he doesn't really exert himself much.

As soon as we stop exerting ourselves, our heart rate should return to normal.

She had a nap after lunch every day, even if she had not exerted herself at all.

to use power or the ability to make something happen:

To cut costs, health-insurance plans are exerting tighter control over paying for medical care.

to cause yourself to make an effort:

She will have to exert herself a lot more if she wants to succeed in this business.