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Definition

Making careful effort (to).

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In Context

  • "The agency has been at pains to stress that its decisions are still based on sound science."
  • "He was at great pains to distance himself from the rumours."
  • "She was at some pains to remind the others to read the instructions."
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See Also

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Related Idioms

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spin one's wheels

To make no progress despite making an effort; to get nowhere.

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give one's all

To lose one's life while making the utmost effort with full commitment …

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pull one's socks up

To start making an effort; to renew or redouble one's efforts.

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land in someone's lap

To come into somebody's possession without that person making any effo …

g

go to great lengths

To make a major effort; to be very careful when doing something, espec …

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