attempt to communicate

USAGE SUMMARY

"attempt to communicate" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as describing someone's efforts to convey a message or express their thoughts. Example: The businessman made a futile attempt to communicate his company's new product to the uninterested audience.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

If the investigators are interested in language and communication, they can attempt to communicate as naturally and informally as possible with their apes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

At the heart of this powerful meditation is Mortier's struggle with language and his attempt to communicate that which lies beyond communication.

The Guardian

"Paper has been used for communication since its invention; either between humans or in an attempt to communicate with the spirit world.

Huffington Post

Despite this, her whole life is an attempt to communicate.

The Guardian - Books

This is an attempt to communicate much deeper information to a child she trusts.

The New York Times - Magazine

Related: 10 tips for charity impact measurement How charities attempt to communicate this is crucial.

The Guardian

Lindsey suggested that the pair attempt to communicate their experiences through a computer game.

The New Yorker

Even the harshest words represent an attempt to communicate; it is silence that isolates people.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

She describes most of the lyrics as an attempt to "[communicate] with someone," but whatever she's trying to convey to that person is invariably garbled by echo.

Vice

And, incoherent though much of it is, it seems to have been Nijinsky's last attempt to communicate with the world.

The New York Times - Arts

In these driving sequences, the player can use Sam's gun, the car's horn, or have Max attempt to communicate with other vehicles via a megaphone.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "attempt to communicate", ensure the context clearly indicates the method or medium used for communication, enhancing clarity and understanding for the audience.

Common error

Avoid using "attempt to communicate" when a more specific verb like "explain", "describe", or "inform" would provide greater clarity and precision. Always choose the most descriptive verb to convey the intended action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attempt to communicate" functions as a verbal phrase indicating an effort or endeavor to convey information, ideas, or feelings. It often introduces a clause explaining the purpose or method of the communication. This is consistent with Ludwig's analysis and is supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "attempt to communicate" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to describe the action of trying to convey information or ideas. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, from news and media to encyclopedic entries. When using this phrase, consider whether a more specific verb might offer greater clarity. Related phrases like "try to convey" or "endeavor to express" can provide alternative ways to phrase the same idea. The phrase appears frequently in News & Media, Encyclopedias and Science.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

try to convey

Focuses on the act of transmitting information or meaning.

endeavor to express

Highlights the effort and intent to articulate thoughts or feelings.

seek to impart

Emphasizes the desire to share or bestow knowledge or understanding.

aim to articulate

Stresses the goal of clearly and effectively putting ideas into words.

make an effort to explain

Highlights the exertion of energy to clarify something.

strive to get across

Focuses on successfully conveying a message despite potential obstacles.

take steps to inform

Emphasizes the actions taken to provide information.

venture to suggest

Implies a cautious or tentative approach to sharing an idea.

undertake to disclose

Highlights a formal or deliberate effort to reveal information.

move to represent

Focuses on acting as a proxy to communicate information.

FAQs

How can I use "attempt to communicate" in a sentence?

You can use "attempt to communicate" to describe efforts to share information, express feelings, or convey a message, as in, "The scientist made an attempt to communicate her findings to the public."

What are some alternatives to "attempt to communicate"?

Some alternatives include "try to convey", "endeavor to express", or "seek to impart", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "attempt to communicate" or "try to communicate"?

"Attempt to communicate" and "try to communicate" are often interchangeable, but "attempt" suggests a more formal or deliberate effort, while "try" is more general. Consider the context to choose the most appropriate phrasing.

What's the difference between "attempt to communicate" and "intend to communicate"?

"Attempt to communicate" refers to the action of trying to convey something, while "intend to communicate" refers to the plan or purpose of conveying something. You might intend to communicate, but not succeed in your attempt.