Definition Definition

attempt - Meaning and Examples

Meaning of 'attempt' (Webster Dictionary)

1 . Attempt [ n.]
- A essay, trial, or endeavor; an undertaking; an attack, or an effort to gain a point; esp. an unsuccessful, as contrasted with a successful, effort.
2 . Attempt [ v. i.]
- To make an attempt; -- with upon.
3 . Attempt [ v. t.]
- To make trial or experiment of; to try; to endeavor to do or perform (some action); to assay; as, to attempt to sing; to attempt a bold flight.
- To try to move, by entreaty, by afflictions, or by temptations; to tempt.
- To try to win, subdue, or overcome; as, one who attempts the virtue of a woman.
- To attack; to make an effort or attack upon; to try to take by force; as, to attempt the enemy's camp.

Meaning of 'attempt' (Princeton's WordNet)

1 . attempt [ n]
Meaning (1):
- the act of attacking
Example in sentence:
  • attacks on women increased last year;
  • they made an attempt on his life
Meaning (2):
- earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something
Example in sentence:
  • made an effort to cover all the reading material;
  • she gave it a good try;
  • wished him luck in his endeavor
3 . attempt [ v]
Meaning (3):
- make an effort or attempt
Example in sentence:
  • He sought to improve himself;
  • He tried to shake off his fears;
  • She always seeks to do good in the world;
  • The infant had essayed a few wobbly steps;
  • The police attempted to stop the thief