a last attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

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

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A last attempt, by a new set of owners, failed in 1951.

The New York Times

As a last attempt, the doctor prescribed morphine, to ease the pain of dying, we suppose.

The New York Times - Health

Ludendorff had gambled on a last attempt at victory before the Americans arrived in strength.

The Guardian

Two years later he made a last attempt before a Federal appeals court to prevent their execution.

The New York Times

"It was kind of a last attempt to basically come out as just very tolerant," Ms. Jackson said.

The New York Times

Ostensibly this was to have her foot strapped; in all probability it was a last attempt to regroup.

The Guardian - Sport

Before Kim Jong-un took power, the government made a last attempt to rein in donju and control market forces.

The New York Times

Because dying patients relate these stories in a last attempt to prevent their fellow patients being duped.

The Guardian - Opinion

NESTING A couple facing middle age make a last attempt to recapture their youth by squatting in the apartment they occupied in their 20s.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Durarbayli's 48... Ng4 was a last desperate attempt to attack.

The New York Times

Her last attempt, a year ago, was hampered by rough seas and jellyfish stings.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a last attempt", ensure the context clearly indicates that all previous efforts have been exhausted. This emphasizes the significance and urgency of the final try.

Common error

Avoid using "a last attempt" when there have been few or no prior attempts. Overusing the phrase dilutes its meaning and impact, suggesting a level of desperation that isn't accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a last attempt" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence or clause. It denotes the final action taken to achieve a specific goal before other options are considered or abandoned. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

16%

Science

12%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a last attempt" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a final effort to achieve a specific goal. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples from reputable sources, primarily in news, encyclopedias and science. While versatile, it is crucial to reserve it for situations where previous attempts have indeed been made to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "a final effort" or "a last-ditch effort" can add nuance, but "a last attempt" remains a clear and effective choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a final effort

Focuses on the exertion of energy in a concluding action.

a last-ditch effort

Emphasizes the desperation and urgency of the final try.

a final endeavor

Highlights the undertaking aspect of the concluding action.

a final try

Simple and direct alternative, emphasizing the act of trying.

a last resort

Indicates that all other options have been exhausted.

a desperate measure

Highlights the level of risk and urgency associated with the attempt.

a last throw of the dice

Implies a gamble with uncertain outcomes.

a Hail Mary

A long-shot attempt with a low probability of success.

the eleventh hour

Highlights the lateness and urgency of the final action.

one last shot

Directly refers to a single, final opportunity.

FAQs

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

You can use "a last attempt" to describe a final effort to achieve something when all other options have failed. For example: "In "a last attempt" to save their relationship, they went on a vacation."

What phrases are similar to "a last attempt"?

Similar phrases include "a final effort", "a last-ditch effort", or "a final try". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a last attempt"?

It is appropriate to use "a last attempt" when describing a situation where someone is making a final effort to achieve a goal, often when facing significant challenges or potential failure. It emphasizes the finality and importance of the action.

Is "a last attempt" interchangeable with "a second attempt"?

No, "a last attempt" implies finality, while "a second attempt" simply means another try. They are not interchangeable as they convey different stages in the attempt process.