What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
exert
Example
He had to exert all his strength to lift the heavy box. [exert: verb]
Example
The company will exert pressure on the government to change the policy. [exert: verb]
exercise
Example
I like to exercise in the morning before work. [exercise: verb]
Example
She does yoga exercises to improve her flexibility. [exercises: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Exercise is more commonly used than exert in everyday language. Exercise is a versatile term that covers a wide range of physical activities, while exert is more limited in its scope and often used in specific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between exert and exercise?
Both exert and exercise can be used in formal and informal contexts, but exert may be more formal and technical in some settings, such as sports or medicine.