attempted
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /əˈtɛmptɪd/
KK: /əˈtɛmptɪd/
adjective
Definition
Tried to do something, often implying that it was not successful.
Example
The attempted escape from the prison was unsuccessful.
Conversation
Did you hear about Jake's attempted prank on Sarah?
Yeah, I heard it didn't go as planned!
Right? It was such an attempted joke, but it fell flat.
I guess not every idea works out the way we hope.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
failed
unfulfilled
incomplete
Antonyms
successful
achieved
completed
verb
Definition
To try to do something, especially something difficult.
Example
She attempted to climb the mountain despite the bad weather.
Tense Forms
Past: attempted
Past Participle: attempted
Conversation
Did you hear about the marathon last weekend?
Yeah, I heard someone attempted to break the record!
I can't believe they actually attempted it; that's so impressive.
Root Explanation
Attempted → It is formed from "attempt" (from Old French *atempter*, meaning to try or test) and the suffix "-ed" (indicating a past action). The word "attempted" means having tried or made an effort to do something.
Memory Tip
Think of someone who has 'tried' ('attempt') to do something in the past, which is what 'attempted' signifies.
Visually Confused Words
unattempted
adempted
rattlepated