usilí

Usilí is a noun used in Czech to denote effort, endeavour, or exertion directed toward achieving a goal. It typically refers to the mental or physical work put into pursuing an objective and can describe both sustained activity and deliberate attempts over time. In everyday language, úsilí appears in contexts that emphasize coordinated or purposeful action rather than a single momentary act.

Etymology and forms: Usilí is derived from the Czech verb usilovat, meaning to strive or to endeavour. The word is usually written with diacritics as úsilí and is used in singular form; related cognates appear in other Slavic languages with similar meanings, reflecting a shared semantic field of effort and striving.

Usage and nuance: Usilí conveys the idea of directed effort and often implies perseverance or a collective or long-term commitment. It can be contrasted with synonyms such as snaha (an attempt or effort, sometimes with a nuance of intention) or vykon (a completed performance). In formal writing, úsilí is common when describing people’s or groups’ ongoing campaigns, projects, or pursuits.

Geographic and linguistic notes: While primarily a Czech term, cognates and near-equivalents exist in related languages, and readers may encounter slightly different spellings or accents in those contexts. In non-native texts, the word may appear without diacritics as usili, which can obscure the original pronunciation.

See also: usilovat, snaha, úsilí (related terms in Slavic languages).