attempt
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /əˈtɛmpt/
KK: /əˈtɛmpt/
noun
Definition
An effort made to do something, especially when it is not successful.
Example
His first attempt to climb the mountain was unsuccessful.
Conversation
I heard you made an attempt to bake a cake last weekend.
Yeah, it didn't turn out as planned, though.
What happened? Was it an epic fail?
Pretty much! But it was a fun attempt at least.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
effort
try
endeavor
Antonyms
failure
abandonment
neglect
transitive verb
Definition
To try to do something, especially something difficult or challenging.
Example
She decided to attempt the math problem again after failing the first time.
Tense Forms
Past: attempted
Past Participle: attempted
Conversation
Did you attempt that new recipe I sent you?
I did! It turned out better than I expected.
That's great to hear! I was worried it might be too complicated.
Root Explanation
Attempt is derived from the Old French 'atempter' (meaning to try or test), which in turn comes from the Latin 'attemptare' (meaning to try or to test). The word 'attempt' means to try or make an effort to do something.
Memory Tip
Think of trying or testing something — that's what 'attempt' means.
Visually Confused Words
reattempt
tempt