Dictionary [ATTEMPT]: A deliberate effort to accomplish a goal, often with no guaranteed outcome

attempt

attempt

noun (countable)
UK/əˈtɛmpt/US/əˈtɛmpt/

An act of trying to achieve something, typically one that is difficult or unsuccessful.

Example Sentences

  1. He made an attempt to climb the mountain despite the harsh weather.

  2. Their first attempt at launching the product was unsuccessful.

  3. She failed on her second attempt to pass the driving test.

  4. The company's latest attempt to enter the market met with resistance.

  1. They increased their efforts after the initial failed attempts.

  2. His attempt to reconcile their differences was admirable.

  3. The rescue team launched an immediate attempt to save the survivors.

  4. Despite numerous attempts, they could not solve the complex problem.

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verb (transitive)
UK/əˈtɛmpt/US/əˈtɛmpt/

To make an effort to achieve or complete something, typically something difficult.

Example Sentences

  1. She attempted to finish the marathon despite feeling exhausted.

  2. They attempted to fix the broken machinery but were unsuccessful.

  3. He attempted to negotiate a better deal for his company.

  4. The team attempted a new strategy to win the game.

  1. She attempted to learn a new language in just six months.

  2. They attempted to climb the steep cliff but had to turn back.

  3. He attempted suicide but was rescued in time.

  4. The company attempted to innovate but failed to gain market traction.

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Synonyms
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How to Use

To make a try or effort toward a task or objective, uncertain of success.

“Attempt” typically denotes initiating action toward a goal when results aren’t guaranteed. You might attempt a new recipe without prior experience, or attempt solving a puzzle that might be challenging. The word underscores the conscious decision to try, even if the outcome remains in doubt. When you say, “I’ll attempt to fix the bike,” you convey your plan to work on it, knowing you might or might not succeed. In formal contexts, “attempt” often appears in phrases like “attempted rescue” or “attempted solution,” highlighting endeavors that may require multiple tries. Whether it’s a minor day-to-day task or a significant undertaking, “attempt” reminds us that effort and uncertainty can coexist.

Alternatives

Synonyms vary with context. “Try” is more casual and common, emphasizing the act of giving something a go. “Endeavor” leans slightly more formal, often implying dedication or ambition. “Seek” can suggest a more searching approach, “effort” references the exertion itself, and “strive” highlights sustained determination. “Attempt” neatly balances the notion of effort and the possibility of not succeeding.

Writing

When writing, pair “attempt” with details about the goal or conditions. For example, “He attempted the summit despite worsening weather,” clarifies both the objective (reaching the summit) and the challenge (poor conditions). If analyzing failures or partial achievements, you might say, “Several attempts were made before success was achieved.” In an academic or business setting, you could describe “attempted solutions” to a complex problem, detailing how each try fared. Adding context—resources used, motivations, outcomes—helps readers grasp the nature and significance of each attempt. If the attempt is notable for being arduous or groundbreaking, emphasize the high stakes or the innovative methods used.

Casual Conversation

In everyday speech, people often say, “Let me attempt to fix this,” or “I’ll attempt the recipe tomorrow,” conveying they’re going to try but aren’t fully sure of success. Friends might joke about multiple attempts at a task—like “I attempted to wake up early all week; it didn’t go great.” This usage keeps things light, acknowledging both the effort and potential for mistakes or partial results. Likewise, you might say, “I attempted to learn guitar, but gave up after a month,” underscoring that you gave it a shot yet didn’t persist. In quick chats, “attempt” sometimes replaces simpler words like “try” to sound a bit more formal or deliberate without being too heavy-handed.

Etymology

“Attempt” comes from Middle English “attempter,” borrowed from Old French “attempter” or “tenter,” which in turn stems from Latin “attemptāre,” meaning “to try or test.” Over centuries, the concept maintained that sense of testing one’s ability or making a preliminary go at something, uncertain if success would follow. As English evolved, “attempt” solidified into the go-to term for any purposeful but not assured venture—whether launching a grand project or merely testing a new hobby. Its Latin root (“ad-” plus “temptāre,” meaning “to touch or try”) highlights that underlying idea: you’re touching upon or probing a challenge, unsure whether you’ll triumph.

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