make an effort vs. make a start

[Kirijji]

English Idioms and Expressions, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #24 "Idioms with phrasal verbs", question 4

My advice is to stop worrying about it and put your best foot forward.

(a) make a step
(b) make an effort
(c) make a start
(d) make a try

English Idioms and Expressions, Advanced Level

ESL/EFL Test #24 "Idioms with phrasal verbs", answer 4

My advice is to stop worrying about it and make an effort.

Correct answer: (b) make an effort
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why not "make a start"?

Kirijji

[Yankee]

Hi Kirijji

The only meaning I'm familiar with for 'put your best foot forward' is 'try hard to do your best (usually in order to make a good impression)'. The choice that is closest to the meaning as I know it is 'make an effort'.

However, according to online sources, the idiom apparently has several meanings. Here is one link:
http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/put+best+foot+forward

Amy
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"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power." ~ Abraham Lincoln