a sixth attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sixth attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the number of times an action has been tried, specifically the sixth time. Example: "After a sixth attempt to solve the puzzle, she finally found the solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Health

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Headley said he saw no reason why Kona Gold would not be back for a sixth attempt at the Sprint.

The New York Times - Sports

Hoping that a sixth attempt would hold, she used a hypnosis tape prepared by Dr. Temes for patients undergoing surgery.

The New York Times - Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A second attempt was even "scarier.

The New York Times

A third attempt was planned.

The New York Times

Not bad for a first attempt.

The Guardian - Music

They were successful on a second attempt.

The Guardian

That'll do for a first attempt.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

As a fourth attempt begins, Congress should clarify the language.

The New York Times

Holden, the perfectionist, goes upstairs for a third attempt.

Independent

Stockdale saved Lukaku's effort at a second attempt.

Independent

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

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sixth attempt" when it is crucial to specify that this is the sixth time something is being tried, particularly when previous attempts have failed.

Common error

Avoid using redundant phrases like "another sixth attempt" if the context already makes it clear that it's a repeat effort. Just stick to "a sixth attempt" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sixth attempt" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It refers to a specific instance of trying something for the sixth time. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sixth attempt" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote the sixth try at something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. While not overly common, the phrase appears in various contexts, particularly in news and media, with a neutral register. Alternative phrases include "another try" or "sixth try". When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly warrants specifying that this is indeed the sixth attempt. Consider using this phrase when precision matters, and the number of attempts is relevant to the message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sixth try

This alternative uses "try" instead of "attempt", which is a more informal synonym.

sixth effort

This alternative uses "effort" instead of "attempt", offering a slightly different nuance.

another try

This alternative is a more general way of saying "another attempt", without specifying the number.

a further effort

This alternative uses a different noun to express the idea of trying again.

a sixth shot

This alternative is similar to 'sixth try', implying an opportunity or chance.

the sixth endeavor

This alternative replaces "attempt" with "endeavor", suggesting a more formal or significant undertaking.

yet another attempt

This alternative stresses the iterative nature of the attempts, emphasizing that it is another in a series.

sixth go

This alternative employs a more casual and colloquial term, "go", in place of "attempt".

one more attempt

This phrase is slightly less precise because it does not specify which number of attempt it is, just that is one more.

a sixth stab

Replaces "attempt" with "stab", which suggests a less precise or skilled try.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sixth attempt" when referring to a specific instance of trying something for the sixth time. For example: "After "a sixth attempt", she finally succeeded."

What's the difference between "a sixth attempt" and "another attempt"?

"A sixth attempt" specifies that it is the sixth try, while "another attempt" simply means an additional try, without specifying the number. "A sixth attempt" is more precise.

Is it okay to use "sixth try" instead of "a sixth attempt"?

Yes, "sixth try" is a more informal alternative to "a sixth attempt". The choice depends on the context and the desired level of formality. Both are grammatically correct.

What are some situations where I might use the phrase "a sixth attempt"?

You might use "a sixth attempt" when describing repeated efforts in sports, surgery, negotiations, or any other situation where multiple tries are required to achieve a goal.