[no obj., with infinitive]try hard to do or achieve something 努力,尽力 he is endeavouring to help the Third World. 他正努力帮助第三世界。
noun
an attempt to achieve a goal 尝试;企图 [with infinitive]an endeavour to reduce serious injury. 减轻严重损伤的尝试。 ■[mass noun]earnest and industrious effort, especially when sustained over a period of time 努力;勤奋 enthusiasm is a vital ingredient in all human endeavour. 热情是人积极进取的关键因素。 ■an enterprise or undertaking 事业,活动 a political endeavour. 政治事业。
语源
late Middle English (in the sense 'exert oneself'): from the phrase put oneself in devoir 'do one's utmost' (see devoir)