Words / C1

ig-ZURT/ɪɡˈzɜːt/

To exert is to use power, influence, or effort: exert pressure, exert influence, exert yourself. Use and put pressure on are everyday; apply is close for force. Exertion is the noun (physical effort). In speech, use / put pressure on is enough. Slightly formal. You exert a force or an influence; you do not “exert a meeting.” Do not confuse it with excerpt (a short extract).

Meaning

To use power, influence, or effort.

Examples

• “Do not exert too much pressure on the class.”
• “Do not exert too much pressure on the class in the week of mocks.”
• “She exerted herself in the last kilometre and still finished smiling.”

Good to know

Use power, influence, or effort. exert pressure / influence; exert yourself. Everyday: use / put pressure on. Noun: exertion. Contrast: excerpt.

Near in meaning

apply

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