a real attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a real attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the sincerity or seriousness of an effort made towards achieving something. Example: "Despite the challenges, she made a real attempt to improve her skills in the new software."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is a real attempt to move beyond the circle".

The Economist

So it was a real attempt at creating a European currency.

Independent

In the sixties, he said, "there was a real attempt to keep hippies from coming".

The New Yorker

It's a real attempt to activate the senses and the brain at the same time.

The Guardian

But there will be a real attempt to pass a good, effective prescription drug program".

The New York Times

"But I think Clarence is making a real attempt to listen to people.

The New York Times

Raw Material is a real attempt to combine celebration of his life and the influence of his work.

The Guardian

"This attack is more symbolic than a real attempt to cause real substantial damage or significant casualties," he said.

The New York Times

It's a real attempt to make the subject his own and take a willing reader along with him.

The Guardian - Books

He insisted his reforms were not a political game, but a real attempt to restore the dignity of work.

The Guardian

A There seem to be more types of spaces being created with a real attempt to make the office more homelike.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a real attempt" to emphasize that an action is not merely superficial but a genuine effort. For example, "The company made "a real attempt" to address customer concerns by implementing a new feedback system."

Common error

Avoid overusing "real" to describe attempts, as it can dilute the impact. Ensure the use of "a real attempt" adds significant emphasis to the genuineness of the effort, rather than serving as a redundant qualifier. For example, instead of saying "They made "a real attempt", but it wasn't a real attempt" consider making a more direct and descriptive statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real attempt" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a verb. It emphasizes that an effort or action is genuine and not merely a superficial gesture. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

9%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a real attempt" is a frequently used phrase to emphasize the genuine and serious nature of an effort. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase serves to assure audiences of sincerity and commitment behind an action. While alternatives like "a genuine effort" and "a sincere endeavor" exist, "a real attempt" remains a straightforward and effective way to convey the authenticity of an undertaking. Remember to avoid using "real" as a filler word, ensuring it adds significant emphasis to maintain the phrase's impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a genuine effort

Replaces "real attempt" with synonyms that highlight authenticity and sincerity of the effort.

a sincere endeavor

Substitutes "attempt" with "endeavor", emphasizing the seriousness and commitment involved.

a determined effort

Focuses on the resolve and strength of will behind the attempt.

a serious try

Replaces "attempt" with the more colloquial "try", while maintaining the emphasis on genuineness.

an honest effort

Highlights the integrity and lack of deception in the attempt.

a bona fide attempt

Uses the Latin term "bona fide" to reinforce the authenticity and good faith nature of the attempt.

a substantial undertaking

Shifts focus to the magnitude and significance of the attempt, rather than just its genuineness.

a committed endeavor

Emphasizes the dedication and investment made in the attempt.

a vigorous effort

Highlights the intensity and energy applied to the attempt.

a legitimate attempt

Suggests that the attempt is justified and in accordance with rules or expectations.

FAQs

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

Use "a real attempt" to emphasize the sincerity and genuineness of an effort. For example, "The government is making "a real attempt" to reduce carbon emissions through new policies."

What are some alternatives to saying "a real attempt"?

You can use phrases like "a genuine effort", "a sincere endeavor", or "a determined effort" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "a real attempt" or "a genuine attempt"?

Both "a real attempt" and "a genuine attempt" are correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific context. "Genuine" might subtly emphasize authenticity more strongly.

What's the difference between "an attempt" and "a real attempt"?

While "an attempt" simply refers to an effort made, "a real attempt" emphasizes the genuineness and seriousness of that effort. It suggests that the effort was not superficial or half-hearted but a sincere and committed undertaking.