a courageous attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a courageous attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an effort that requires bravery or boldness, often in the face of challenges or difficulties. Example: "Despite the odds stacked against them, the team made a courageous attempt to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"Wilson's Ghost" is a courageous attempt to tackle the most crucial issues of our time.

The New York Times - Books

The children are forbidden to enter it but one girl, braver than the rest, makes a courageous attempt to escape.

Independent

It's a courageous attempt, but at a time when horror movies have achieved new levels in blatancy, it may prove too slight for the genre audience.

The New York Times

Their brilliant full-back, Billy Slater, fractured his collarbone in a courageous attempt to prevent the first of Ryan Hall's two splendid first‑half tries.

The Guardian - Sport

Israel's anguished decision on July 28 to release over 100 convicted terrorists, as well as to help the Palestinian economy, were a courageous attempt to build trust and improve the atmosphere surrounding the negotiations, and I supported it.

The New York Times

Dr. Gregory Chaitin, a mathematician at the I.B.M. Watson Research Laboratory in New York, called it "a remarkable book," a courageous attempt to create a new way of viewing the world.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

In the first comprehensive tax reform bill proposed since Reagan 30 years ago, this legislation was widely viewed as a bold and courageous attempt to address a politically jeopardizing area of law.

TechCrunch

This version comes with greater vocal outpouring of the Congressman's courage; his courageous attempt to curtail government excesses -- his agonized cry for austerity.

Huffington Post

Mr. Osbourne, 55, was praised by the police for what they said was his courageous attempt to stop the robbery; he tackled an intruder and chased him through the family manison in Buckinghamshire, but the robber escaped by jumping some 30 feet from a first-floor window.

The New York Times

Other Muslims praise his courageous attempt to ease inter-communal tensions, and it was a Muslim man who saved him.

BBC

A local New York City guy is giving out decidedly mixed signals on President Obama's courageous attempt to bring universal health care to Americans.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using "a courageous attempt". While generally positive, ensure it aligns with the tone and formality of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a courageous attempt" for everyday tasks or minor challenges. It's best reserved for situations where genuine bravery, risk, or significant effort is involved. Overuse can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a courageous attempt" functions as a noun phrase, where "courageous" modifies the noun "attempt". It serves to describe an action or endeavor undertaken with bravery and boldness. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a courageous attempt" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in English, used to describe an effort marked by bravery and boldness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, but most commonly found in News & Media sources. Remember to reserve its use for situations truly deserving of the descriptor to maintain its impact and avoid overuse. Consider alternatives like ""a brave endeavor"" or ""a valiant effort"" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brave endeavor

Replaces "courageous" with "brave" and "attempt" with "endeavor", emphasizing the effort and boldness.

a valiant effort

Uses "valiant" to highlight the bravery and determination in the effort.

a bold undertaking

Emphasizes the boldness and ambitious nature of the attempt.

a daring venture

Focuses on the risk and adventurous aspect of the attempt.

a spirited try

Highlights the enthusiasm and energy put into the attempt.

a plucky effort

Suggests a cheerful and resilient attempt, especially against the odds.

a game try

Implies willingness and enthusiasm even when facing challenges.

a heroic effort

Elevates the attempt to a level of heroism, emphasizing extraordinary bravery.

a determined effort

Focuses on the resolute and unwavering nature of the attempt.

a fearless approach

Highlights the absence of fear in the way something is attempted.

FAQs

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

You can use "a courageous attempt" to describe someone's brave effort in facing a challenge, for example: "Despite the overwhelming odds, the team made "a courageous attempt" to win the game".

What are some alternatives to "a courageous attempt"?

Some alternatives include "a brave endeavor", "a valiant effort", or "a bold undertaking depending on the context".

Is "a courageous attempt" formal or informal?

"A courageous attempt" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts, depending on the overall tone of the writing. However, it leans slightly towards the formal side.

Can "a courageous attempt" be used in a negative context?

While primarily positive, "a courageous attempt" can be used in a neutral or even slightly ironic context if the attempt ultimately fails despite the bravery involved. However, be mindful of the tone to avoid sounding dismissive.