a third attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a third attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of trying something for the third time after previous attempts. Example: "After a third attempt to solve the problem, I finally found the solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A third attempt was planned.

The New York Times

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

Independent

A third attempt was abandoned before it reached a vote.

The New Yorker

A third attempt during the early monsoon snow ended in disaster.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Instead of a third attempt, it feels more like a third strike.

The Washington Post

A third attempt was thwarted by the general election, when the bill fell once more.

The Guardian

The last part was the kick, a third attempt for a perfect ending.

The New York Times - Sports

I plan to return to Everest for a third attempt one day.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A piloted capsule was lowered at 8 a.m. today for a third attempt.

The New York Times

After a third attempt, Villaraigosa declared that the amendments had passed.

The Guardian

On a third attempt, the plane left the runway but slammed into a fence.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a third attempt", ensure the context clearly establishes that there were indeed two prior attempts. Clarity is key for effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "a third attempt" when only one prior attempt has been made. Double-check the sequence of events to ensure accurate representation of the number of tries.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a third attempt" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a specific instance in a series of actions, indicating that an action has been repeated twice before. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

21%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a third attempt" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe the third instance of trying something. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and provides numerous examples across diverse sources. It typically functions as a noun phrase and carries a neutral tone, suitable for various contexts. When using it, ensure it accurately reflects a sequence of three tries. As indicated by the source analysis, this expression frequently appears in News & Media, Wiki, and Science related articles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the third try

Uses the more informal term "try" instead of "attempt".

the third effort

Replaces "attempt" with "effort", emphasizing the work involved.

a further attempt

Replaces "third" with a more general term indicating an additional try, without specifying the number.

a repeat attempt

Focuses on the repetition of the same action.

another try

Simplifies the phrase, focusing on the act of trying again.

a subsequent attempt

Indicates that the attempt happened after the initial ones, without stating exactly which number attempt it is.

a following attempt

Similar to "subsequent attempt", but slightly less formal.

a renewed effort

Emphasizes the energy and determination put into the attempt.

yet another attempt

Highlights the repetitive nature of the attempts, potentially implying frustration.

a re-attempt

A less common but valid alternative, using a prefix to indicate repetition.

FAQs

How to use "a third attempt" in a sentence?

You can use "a third attempt" to describe a situation where someone is trying to do something for the third time, such as: "After two failed negotiations, the diplomats made "a third attempt" to reach an agreement."

What can I say instead of "a third attempt"?

Alternatives include "another try", "a renewed effort", or "the third try", depending on the context.

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

"A third attempt" is appropriate when you are specifically referring to the third time someone has tried to do something after two previous unsuccessful tries.

Is "a third attempt" formal or informal?

"A third attempt" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The formality of the surrounding language will often dictate the overall tone.