Endeavour

Definition

Endeavour refers to an attempt to achieve a goal or undertake a challenging task. It is often used to describe a significant effort or enterprise aimed at achieving something worthwhile.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈdɛvər/
• Respelling: in-DEV-er

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪnˈdɛvə/
• Respelling: in-DEV-uh

The pronunciation of "endeavour" is similar in both American and British English, with a slight difference in the ending sound.

Etymology

The word "endeavour" comes from the Middle English "endeveren," which means "to make an effort." This term is derived from the Old French "endevoir," meaning "duty" or "effort," which in turn comes from the Latin phrase "in deber," meaning "to be in duty." The word has evolved to describe the act of trying hard to achieve something.

Derivatives

• Endeavor (American spelling, noun/verb)
• Endeavoured (verb, British spelling)
• Endeavouring (verb, British spelling)
• Endeavourer (noun)
• Unendeavoured (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Attempt
• Strive
• Undertake

Antonyms

• Neglect
• Give up
• Abandon

Usage

The word "endeavour" is often used in formal or literary contexts to describe efforts made towards achieving a particular goal. It can be applied to both personal and professional undertakings, as well as to significant projects or missions.

Related Terms

• Venture: A risky or daring journey or undertaking.
• Enterprise: A project or undertaking, especially one that is difficult, requires effort, or is of large scope.
• Effort: A vigorous or determined attempt to achieve something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An attempt to achieve a goal: Describes the effort or action taken to accomplish something challenging or worthwhile.
  • Example: "His endeavour to climb the mountain was met with many challenges."

Verb

• To try hard to achieve something: Refers to the act of making a significant effort to accomplish a task or reach a goal.
  • Example: "She will endeavour to complete the project on time."