four right efforts ［四正勤・四正断］ ( shi-shōgon or shi-shōdan): Also, four correct exertions or four types of correct effort. The four right efforts are (1) to put an end to existing evil, (2) to prevent evil from arising, (3) to bring good into existence, and (4) to encourage existing good. In short, they indicate efforts to put an end to evil acts that block the way to enlightenment and to perform good acts that lead to enlightenment. The four right efforts are the second of the seven constituent groups of the thirty-seven aids to the way, or the thirty-seven practices leading to enlightenment. See also thirty-seven aids to the way.