a final attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a final attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the last effort made to achieve something or to resolve a situation. Example: "After several failed attempts, we decided to make a final attempt to fix the issue before seeking outside help."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A final attempt, from thirteen yards out, failed.

The New Yorker

Smythe and Shipton made a final attempt on June 1.

Encyclopedia Britannica

And so, a few days ago, I made a final attempt.

The New York Times

Cantwell thrust his beefy arms above his head and did not bother with a final attempt.

The New York Times - Sports

We made a final attempt at negotiations at Taba in January 2001.

The New York Times

Or they can make a final attempt to make the European project work.

The Guardian - Opinion

She made a final attempt to schedule a viewing, saying they were on the verge of committing to another property.

The New York Times

The IOC may insist that Athens 2004 hires organisers from Sydney, in a final attempt to meet deadlines.

The Economist

A final attempt by the viceroy, Lord Wavell, to bring the Congress Party and the Muslim League together failed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

One night, I stopped by his dressing room to make a final attempt to repair our relationship.

The New Yorker

Then as I prepared to leave Delhi for a holiday, I made a final attempt to find the phantom.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a final attempt" when you want to emphasize that no further efforts will be made after this one. It signals the culmination of previous tries.

Common error

Avoid using "a final attempt" when you're just beginning a series of actions. This phrase is best reserved for situations where previous efforts have already been made. Instead use "an initial attempt" or "a first try".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a final attempt" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

17%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a final attempt" is a common phrase used to indicate the last effort to achieve a goal, often after previous attempts have been made. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and versatility across various contexts, ranging from news and media to science and encyclopedias. While alternatives like "a last effort" or "a last try" exist, "a final attempt" effectively conveys the sense of culmination and potential consequences. When using this phrase, ensure it appropriately reflects the sequence of events and isn't prematurely applied. With a high source quality score and expert rating, this phrase remains a reliable choice for expressing a concluding endeavor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a last-ditch effort

This alternative emphasizes the desperation or urgency of the attempt.

a concluding endeavor

This phrase provides a more formal and definitive tone, emphasizing the end of the effort.

a last try

This alternative is more informal and straightforward, suitable for casual contexts.

a final shot

This conveys the idea of a single opportunity, often used metaphorically.

a decisive effort

While similar, it is used when talking about a positive last impact after this attempt. It emphasizes the importance and impact of the final effort.

a last resort

This term underlines that something must be done when all other options have failed.

an ultimate endeavor

This is used when talking about a final attempt or last resort and also emphasizes the importance of the goal and effort.

the end game

This alludes to the last stage of a plan or project, where the final actions are taken.

a terminal undertaking

The phrase emphasizes that no further actions are planned, highlighting the end of the process.

the last act

This phrase draws upon the performing arts scene, implying a final action or event.

FAQs

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

You can use "a final attempt" to describe the last effort made to achieve something, as in, "After several failed negotiations, the company made "a final attempt" to reach an agreement.".

What are some alternatives to "a final attempt"?

Some alternatives include "a last effort", "a last try", or "a last ditch attempt", depending on the context.

Is it better to use "a final attempt" or "a last attempt"?

Both "a final attempt" and "a last attempt" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. The choice often depends on personal preference or stylistic considerations.

When should I use "a final attempt" instead of "a desperate attempt"?

Use "a final attempt" when emphasizing that it's the last in a series of planned actions. Use "a desperate attempt" when highlighting the urgency and high stakes of the situation.