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esfuerzo

es-FWEHR-soh/esˈfweɾso/

“esfuerzo” means “effort” in Spanish (general sense of trying hard).

effort, endeavor

Also: exertion, strain
NounmA2
Mexico
A small, determined cartoon character is straining visibly, using all its strength to push a massive gray boulder up a gentle green slope, illustrating intense physical effort.

📝 In Action

Hicimos un gran esfuerzo para terminar el proyecto a tiempo.

A2

We made a great effort to finish the project on time.

Con mucho esfuerzo, logró levantar la caja pesada.

B1

With a lot of exertion, he managed to lift the heavy box.

Su esfuerzo constante en los estudios dio frutos.

B2

Her constant endeavor in her studies paid off.

Esfuérzate un poco más, ¡ya casi llegas!

A2

Make a little more effort, you're almost there!

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • diligencia (diligence)
  • trabajo (work)
  • empeño (determination)

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • hacer un esfuerzo – to make an effort
  • el esfuerzo físico – physical effort/exertion
  • valer la pena el esfuerzo – to be worth the effort

Idioms & Expressions

  • a puro esfuerzo – by sheer effort/willpower

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "esfuerzo" in Spanish:

effort→endeavor→exertion→strain→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: esfuerzo

Question 1 of 1

Which phrase correctly means 'It requires effort'?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
esforzarse(to make an effort / to strive) — Verb
esforzado(courageous / hard-working) — Adjective
🎵 Rhymes▼
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📚 Etymology▼

This word comes from the verb 'esforzar,' which traces back to the Latin term *exfortiare*. The core meaning is closely related to 'strength' (*fuerza* in Spanish), literally describing the act of 'putting forth strength' or 'strengthening oneself.'

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: esforçoCatalan: esforç

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'esfuerzo' and 'fuerza'?

'Fuerza' means 'strength' or 'power' (the ability itself, like muscle strength). 'Esfuerzo' means 'effort' or 'exertion'—it is the *act* of applying that strength or energy to achieve something.