1. 努力 ; 费力 [U][C] She failed to unlock the safe in spite of all her exertions . 她虽然费尽力气 , 仍未能将那保险箱的锁打开。 He was painting the gate with exertion . 他在费力地油漆大门。

2. ( 能力、权力等的 ) 运用 ; 行使 [U] Exertion of authority over others is not always wise. 以权压人并不总是明智的。