Attempt

/əˈtɛmpt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
An effort made to achieve or complete something.
Despite his first attempt, he knew he could do better next time.
A trial or effort to do something.
Her attempt at baking a cake was a complete success.
An illegal or unauthorized effort to achieve something, often associated with a crime.
The police reported an attempt to break into the bank last night.
verb
To make an effort to accomplish something; to try.
She will attempt to climb the mountain next summer.
To make an effort to achieve or complete a task.
He attempted to fix the car by himself.
To test one's skill or ability in a particular activity.
They attempted to break the world record in the marathon.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'attempter', based on 'a-' + 'templet', meaning 'to put to the test'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

attempt at
An effort made to achieve something.
attempt something
To try to do something.
first attempt
The initial try at something.

Related Words

effort
A vigorous or determined attempt.
trial
A test of the performance, qualities, or suitability of someone or something.

Slang Meanings

Give it a shot
I'm not sure if I'll succeed, but I'll give it a shot.
Take a stab at it
I think I can take a stab at that question.