a blatant attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a blatant attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an obvious or conspicuous effort to achieve something, often with a negative connotation. Example: "The politician's speech was seen as a blatant attempt to gain public sympathy after the scandal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a misrepresentation and a blatant attempt to redefine history.

The Economist

"This is a blatant attempt to extend their jurisdiction into other states.

The Guardian - Sport

"Any assertion otherwise by industry is a blatant attempt to misrepresent Congress's intentions".

The New York Times

Republicans responded angrily to what they called a blatant attempt to steamroll opposition in Congress.

The New York Times

Intimidation: a blatant attempt, grumbled ALEC supporters, to frighten donors away.

The Economist

But today Cameron is making a blatant attempt to woo Clegg's supporters.

The Guardian

Prentis described the Ukip poster as a "blatant attempt to incite racial hatred".

The Guardian

Journalists and Western diplomats have condemned the code as a blatant attempt at political censorship.

The New York Times

In my eyes, this policy is a blatant attempt to further polarise the rich and poor.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was a blatant attempt to dump Andrews, but Finley was thwarted in his effort.

The New York Times - Sports

"Clearly the public sees this as a blatant attempt to muzzle the independence of this house.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a blatant attempt", ensure the context supports the negative connotation of obviousness and lack of subtlety. It's most effective when highlighting unethical or underhanded actions.

Common error

Avoid using "a blatant attempt" in situations where a neutral or positive description is more appropriate. The phrase inherently implies disapproval or criticism; using it in neutral scenarios can skew your reader's perception.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a blatant attempt" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject complement or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI shows it's used to label and criticize actions perceived as overtly manipulative or insincere.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a blatant attempt" is a noun phrase used to express strong disapproval of an action that is seen as overtly manipulative or insincere. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and very commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts, suggesting a neutral register appropriate for professional discussions. Related phrases include "an obvious endeavor" and "a clear manipulation", but these carry slightly different connotations. While its usage is widespread, consider the negative implication before employing it in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a conspicuous effort

Replaces "blatant" with "conspicuous" and "attempt" with "effort", maintaining a similar level of formality.

a patent endeavor

Replaces "blatant" with "patent", indicating something easily recognizable, and "attempt" with "endeavor".

an obvious endeavor

Replaces "blatant" with "obvious" and "attempt" with "endeavor", softening the negative connotation slightly.

an undisguised effort

Emphasizes the lack of concealment, similar to "blatant", while using "effort" as an alternative to "attempt".

a flagrant maneuver

Substitutes "blatant" with "flagrant" and "attempt" with "maneuver", implying a more strategic or calculated action.

a brazen maneuver

Uses "brazen" to convey boldness and lack of shame, similar to "blatant", while using "maneuver" to replace "attempt".

a plain manipulation

Uses "plain" as a direct substitute for "blatant" stressing the simple, obvious nature of the attempt, replaced by "manipulation".

a clear manipulation

Substitutes "attempt" with "manipulation", highlighting the potentially deceitful nature of the action.

a transparent ploy

Uses "transparent" instead of "blatant" and "ploy" in place of "attempt", suggesting a readily visible scheme.

a bald-faced scheme

Uses a more informal tone, replacing "blatant attempt" with "bald-faced scheme", suggesting dishonesty.

FAQs

How can I use "a blatant attempt" in a sentence?

Use "a blatant attempt" to describe an action that is obviously trying to achieve a specific goal, often in a way that is perceived as negative or unethical. For example, "The company's marketing campaign was "a blatant attempt" to mislead consumers".

What are some alternatives to "a blatant attempt"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "an obvious effort", "a clear manipulation", or "a transparent ploy".

Is it always negative to describe something as "a blatant attempt"?

Yes, the phrase carries a negative connotation, implying that the attempt is not only obvious but also likely dishonest, unethical, or otherwise unfavorable. If the intention is neutral, consider alternatives like "a clear effort".

What's the difference between "a blatant attempt" and "a clear attempt"?

While both phrases describe an obvious effort, "a blatant attempt" suggests that the effort is also inappropriate or immoral. "A clear attempt" simply indicates that the effort is easily noticeable without necessarily judging its ethics.