attempt to define

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attempt to define" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the effort to clarify or explain the meaning of a term or concept. Example: "In this paper, I will attempt to define the key terms related to climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is an attempt to define criteria that may be suitable to evaluate ill-defined tasks involving CT.

International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education

I wouldn't even attempt to define it myself.

The New York Times

Benign violation: Peter McGraw's attempt to define the Grand Unified Theory of Humor.

The New Yorker

The discussion began with an attempt to define exactly what zero waste means.

The Guardian

Hughes deftly avoided any attempt to define what precisely constituted a "mild smack", for example.

The Guardian

When film theorists attempt to define cinematic specificity, it is to non-talkies that they turn.

The Guardian - Film

Some outside the struggle attempt to define what they believe Madison has at stake.

The New York Times

"Obviously, it's an attempt to define Kerry in negative terms during this early period.

The New York Times

An Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding is an attempt to define the principles of human knowledge.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Consistently, however, the British government and its officials attempt to define its obligations to refugees as narrowly as possible.

The Guardian

Tights or long boots completely hid the legs and there was no attempt to define the waist.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "attempt to define", ensure that the context clearly indicates what you are trying to define and why it's important to do so. Clarity is key.

Common error

Avoid implying that the definition is fully achieved or universally accepted simply because an attempt was made. Acknowledge the limitations or potential for further refinement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attempt to define" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase that expresses an action or purpose. It often acts as a verbal complement or adjectival modifier, indicating the intent to clarify the meaning of a concept or term. Ludwig confirms that it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "attempt to define" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that denotes the effort to clarify the meaning of a term or concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's correct and usable across various contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias. While alternatives like "try to define" or "seek to define" exist, "attempt to define" maintains a formal and professional tone, making it suitable for diverse writing scenarios. It's crucial to acknowledge that making an attempt doesn't guarantee success, and awareness of this nuance can enhance the precision of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

endeavor to define

Replaces "attempt" with the more formal "endeavor", maintaining the core meaning of trying to define.

try to define

Uses the simpler verb "try" instead of "attempt", making it slightly less formal.

seek to define

Employs "seek" to convey a more proactive or intentional effort to define.

make an effort to define

Replaces the single word "attempt" with the phrase "make an effort", adding a bit more emphasis.

aim to define

Uses "aim" to suggest a goal-oriented approach to defining something.

strive to define

Conveys a more determined and persistent effort to define.

undertake to define

A more formal way of saying "attempt to define", suggesting a serious undertaking.

set out to define

Indicates a deliberate and planned effort to define.

venture to define

Suggests a bolder or more risky approach to defining something.

work towards a definition

Shifts the focus to the process of working towards a definition, rather than the attempt itself.

FAQs

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

You can use "attempt to define" to describe an effort to clarify or explain the meaning of something. For example, "The author will "attempt to define" the concept of post-modernism in the first chapter."

What are some alternatives to "attempt to define"?

You can use alternatives like "try to define", "seek to define", or "make an effort to define" depending on the context.

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

"Attempt to define" and "try to define" are largely interchangeable, but "attempt" is generally considered more formal and suggests a more considered or structured effort.

What's the difference between "attempt to define" and "succeed in defining"?

"Attempt to define" indicates an effort made, regardless of the outcome, while "succeed in defining" means that the effort was successful and a clear definition was achieved.