exert

To use power, influence, or pressure to affect someone or something.

• Parents exert a strong influence on children.
• The government exerted pressure on the company.
• This small magnet exerts a surprisingly strong force.

How to use it: exert something on someone/something (The company exerted pressure on its suppliers.); exert control over someone/something (She exerts control over every part of the business.)

Similar words: apply, exercise, wield

Common phrases: exert pressure, exert influence, exert control, exert force

To use a lot of energy or strength to do something.

• Don't exert yourself in this heat.
• He exerted himself during the final part of the race.
• She rarely exerts herself enough to feel tired.

How to use it: exert oneself (You need to exert yourself to climb that hill.)

Similar words: make an effort, push oneself

Opposites: rest, relax

Common phrases: exert yourself, exert oneself, exert one's strength