exert
verb (used with object)
to put forth or into use, as power; exercise, as ability or influence; put into vigorous action.
was exerting
-
past progressiveof exert.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In February 2022, Hugh, then aged 71, felt generally well but started to experience shortness of breath when he was exerting himself.
From BBC ● Jun. 10, 2026
To understand how cell density was exerting these effects, co-first author Josquin Courte, a postdoc in the Morsut Lab, conducted a series of experiments that yielded a surprising discovery.
From Science Daily ● Nov. 19, 2024
Ruben Vardanyan, head of the breakaway region's government, told Reuters on a video call from the main town Stepanakert that the "blockade" was exerting "big psychological pressure" on the population.
From Reuters ● Dec. 23, 2022
In 2009, Pauly filed a lawsuit against his brother that charged Peter was exerting "undue influence" over their mother.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 11, 2018
Danny was exerting himself at that moment to keep order and silence.
From The Deemster by Sir Hall Caine
