# attempt

/əˈtɛmpt/ (US) · /ɐtˈɛmpt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/attempt
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. to try

verb · CEFR B1

to try to do something, especially when it is difficult or you are not sure you will succeed.

For teachers: to make an effort to achieve or complete a task, typically one that is challenging. Transitive — usually followed by a to-infinitive or a direct object.

- He will attempt to break the world record during the race tomorrow.
- The rescue team will attempt to reach the stranded climbers once the blizzard subsides and visibility improves.

Usage: Commonly followed by a 'to' infinitive: 'attempt to do something'.

### 2. an effort

noun · CEFR B1

an act of trying to do something.

For teachers: the act of trying to perform a task or achieve a goal.

- This was her second attempt at passing the driving test.
- Despite a valiant attempt to secure the funding, the start-up was forced to downsize its operations.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'at' or followed by a 'to' infinitive.

### 3. an attack

noun · CEFR B2 · Formal

an act of trying to kill someone or hurt them.

For teachers: an unsuccessful effort to commit a violent act, particularly an assassination or a physical assault.

- The president survived an assassination attempt early this morning.
- Security forces were praised for thwarting an attempt on the prime minister's life during the public parade.

## Examples

- She made a brave attempt to climb the steep hill.
- The rescue team made a final attempt to reach the trapped hikers before the storm arrived.
- Despite several failed attempts to reform the tax code, the committee remains optimistic that the current proposal will gain enough support to pass the house.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.