THESAURUS
exert
apply, attempt, bring into play, bring to bear, bust a gut, do with, employ, endeavor, exercise, expend, go all out, handle, make an effort, make use of, manage, manipulate, operate, play, ply, practice, push, put forth, put out, strain, strive, struggle, throw, toil, try, use, utilize, wield, work
ROGET THESAURUS
exert
Use
VB
use, make use of, employ, put to use, put in action, put in operation, put in practice, set in motion, set to work, ply, work, wield, handle, manipulate, play, play off,
exert, exercise, practice, avail oneself of, profit by, resort to, have recourse to, recur to, take betake oneself to, take up with, take advantage of, lay one's hands on, try, render useful, mold, turn to account, turn to use, convert to use, utilize, work up, call into play, bring into play, put into requisition, call forth, draw forth, press into service, enlist into the service, bring to bear upon, devote, dedicate, consecrate, apply, adhibit, dispose of, make a handle of, make a cat's-paw of, fall back upon, make a shift with, make the most of, make the best of, use up, swallow up, consume, absorb, expend, tax, task, wear, put to task.
Physical Energy
VB
give energy, energize, stimulate, kindle, excite,
exert, sharpen, intensify, inflame, wind up, strike home, into home, hard home, make an impression.