an exceptional attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an exceptional attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a noteworthy or outstanding effort made towards achieving something. Example: "Despite the challenges, the team made an exceptional attempt to complete the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Most notably, CrowdStar and Sibblingz teamed up to each offer $250K in funding for exceptional attempts at creating mobile social games.

TechCrunch

Because phasing out the extraordinary, exceptional attempts to reduce the cost of money - the hallmark of the central banks of the major rich economies since the crash of 2008 - is fraught with dangers.

BBC

At Epsom he has ridden seven Classic winners in 23 attempts, an exceptional strike-rate at this of all tracks.

The Guardian - Sport

The raid was described as an exceptional feat yesterday as most attempts to stop piracy on the high seas usually result in captured ships being left in the hands of their hijackers because of fears for the safety of the crew.

Independent

An exceptional crisis requires an exceptional response.

Science Magazine

Still an exceptional talent.

The Guardian - Sport

This was an exceptional marriage".

The New York Times - Books

"America is an exceptional nation".

The New York Times

"It is an exceptional signature".

The New York Times - Arts

But that's an exceptional number for exceptional circumstances.

The New York Times

"Arsène is an exceptional physiologist.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an exceptional attempt" to highlight efforts that significantly exceed expectations or standard performance.

Common error

Avoid using "an exceptional attempt" to describe ordinary efforts. This phrase is best reserved for truly remarkable endeavors to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an exceptional attempt" functions as a noun phrase, where 'exceptional' modifies 'attempt'. It describes the quality of a specific effort or undertaking. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an exceptional attempt" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an effort that goes above and beyond the ordinary. While the phrase is not extremely common in the provided data, Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English. When using this phrase, reserve it for truly remarkable endeavors to maintain its impact. Alternative phrases such as "a remarkable effort" or "an outstanding endeavor" can be used depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a remarkable effort

Replaces 'exceptional' with 'remarkable', emphasizing the noteworthiness of the effort.

an outstanding endeavor

Substitutes 'attempt' with 'endeavor', highlighting the ambitious nature of the undertaking.

a significant undertaking

Focuses on the importance and magnitude of the attempt, rather than its quality.

a praiseworthy effort

Emphasizes the deserving of praise aspect of the attempt, adding a layer of commendation.

a commendable undertaking

Similar to 'praiseworthy effort', but using 'undertaking' to suggest a planned project.

a sterling effort

Uses 'sterling' to convey the high quality and value of the attempt.

a valiant effort

Highlights the courage and determination involved in the attempt, particularly in the face of difficulty.

a herculean effort

Emphasizes the immense strength and effort required, alluding to the mythological hero Hercules.

a monumental undertaking

Focuses on the lasting impact and historical significance of the attempt.

a noble endeavor

Adds an element of morality and high-mindedness to the attempt, suggesting it is for a worthy cause.

FAQs

How can I use "an exceptional attempt" in a sentence?

You can use "an exceptional attempt" to describe an effort that goes above and beyond what is expected. For example, "Despite the immense challenges, the team made "an exceptional attempt" to deliver the project on time".

What are some alternatives to "an exceptional attempt"?

Alternatives include "a remarkable effort", "an outstanding endeavor", or "a valiant effort", depending on the context and the specific aspect of the attempt you wish to emphasize.

Is it always necessary to use "an" before "exceptional attempt"?

Yes, "exceptional" begins with a vowel sound, so the indefinite article "an" is grammatically required. Using "a exceptional attempt" is incorrect.

What distinguishes "an exceptional attempt" from a simply "good attempt"?

"An exceptional attempt" suggests that the effort was not only good but also notably superior, displaying remarkable qualities. A "good attempt" is more general and does not necessarily imply the same level of excellence.