In an Effort To Synonym: Alternative Phrases and Usage Guide

“In an effort to” is a commonly used phrase to indicate purpose or intention, and it can be replaced with several effective synonyms depending on context. These alternatives can enhance your writing by adding variety or more specific nuance.

Best Synonyms for “In an Effort To”

Here are some widely accepted synonyms and equivalent expressions that convey the same meaning as “in an effort to”:

• In order to
• To (as a direct infinitive)
• So as to
• With the aim of
• With the intention of
• For the purpose of
• As an attempt to
• Trying to
• Striving to

Contextual Usage Examples

Original Phrase	Synonym Replacement	Example Sentence
In an effort to reduce costs	In order to reduce costs	The company downsized in order to reduce costs.
In an effort to improve service	With the aim of improving service	The changes were implemented with the aim of improving service.
In an effort to attract new users	To attract new users	The app added new features to attract new users.
In an effort to gain approval	Trying to gain approval	She revised the proposal trying to gain approval.

Choosing the Right Synonym

While most of these phrases are interchangeable, choosing the right one depends on tone and formality. For professional or academic writing, use “in order to” or “with the aim of”. In casual or conversational writing, “to” or “trying to” may suffice.

Tip: If you’re aiming for concise writing, using the simple infinitive “to” is usually the best choice.

Conclusion

Replacing “in an effort to” with synonyms like “in order to,” “with the aim of,” or simply “to” can make your writing more fluid and less repetitive. Consider the tone and context of your sentence to choose the best alternative.

FAQ

What does “in an effort to” mean?

It means trying to accomplish something or doing something with a specific goal or intention in mind.

Is “in an effort to” formal?

Yes, it is considered a formal or semi-formal expression, commonly used in business, academic, and official communication.

What is the most concise synonym for “in an effort to”?

The most concise synonym is simply “to,” which can often replace the phrase without losing meaning.

Can I use “trying to” instead of “in an effort to”?

Yes, especially in informal writing or speech, “trying to” is a suitable and more conversational alternative.