a second attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

"a second attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it for situations when someone tries something a second time, either because they failed or were not successful with it the first time. For example, "After his first attempt at fixing the sink was unsuccessful, he decided to make a second attempt."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A second attempt was even "scarier.

The New York Times

They were successful on a second attempt.

The Guardian

Stockdale saved Lukaku's effort at a second attempt.

Independent

Unusually in the autobiographical genre, it is a second attempt.

The Economist

Within three months, a second attempt, operation Gunnerside, was planned.

The Guardian

A second attempt later that year went a little better.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Yemeni government made a second attempt to offer support.

The Guardian

A second attempt, which took about 30 minutes, was successful.

The New York Times - Tech

If the student fails the exam, the committee may vote to allow a second attempt.

University of California, Berkeley

She fails at first, but then returns for a second attempt.

Columbia University

A second attempt, more than an hour later, was no more successful.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a second attempt", clearly indicate what the first attempt was and why it was not successful. This provides context and clarity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "a second attempt" without referencing the initial attempt. Without context, the phrase becomes vague and confusing. For instance, instead of saying 'He made a second attempt', specify 'He made a second attempt to start the car after the first try failed'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a second attempt" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes the action of trying again after an initial effort, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples. As Ludwig AI explains, its use is grammatically correct and understandable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

17%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a second attempt" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a repeated effort. According to Ludwig AI, it is applicable in various contexts to highlight persistence or renewed action after an initial try. It maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal communication, and it frequently appears in news, academic, and science-related content. When using this phrase, providing context about the first attempt enhances clarity for the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a repeat effort

This alternative suggests a renewed or duplicated exertion toward a specific goal.

another try

This is a simpler, more informal way of saying "a second attempt".

a follow-up attempt

This phrase emphasizes the sequential nature of the attempt, highlighting that it comes after a previous one.

a renewed effort

Focuses on the revitalized nature of the effort, implying that it's been restarted with fresh energy.

a subsequent try

Indicates that the attempt is coming after something else in a sequence.

a further endeavor

Emphasizes the effort as an undertaking or project, adding a slightly more formal tone.

a fresh start

This option suggests a new beginning or approach after a previous setback.

another shot

An idiomatic and informal alternative, suggesting another opportunity.

a revised approach

Implies that the second attempt involves modifying the original strategy.

a follow-on action

This option highlights the action taken as a result of the previous attempt, indicating a continuation of efforts.

FAQs

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

You can use "a second attempt" to describe a situation where someone tries again after an initial effort. For example, "After failing the exam the first time, she made "a second attempt" and passed".

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

Alternatives include phrases like "another try", "a repeat effort", or "a follow-up attempt", depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to mention the first attempt when using "a second attempt"?

While not always strictly necessary, providing context about the initial attempt enhances clarity. If the first attempt is implied or understood, it can be omitted, but explicitness is generally preferred.

What's the difference between "a second attempt" and "a further attempt"?

"A second attempt" specifically implies that it's the immediate next try after the first. "A further attempt" suggests another try, but doesn't necessarily mean it's directly after the first one; there could have been other attempts in between.