attempt to play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attempt to play" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an effort or endeavor to engage in playing a game, instrument, or any activity that involves play. Example: "Despite the challenges, she made an attempt to play the piano at the concert."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

It was our attempt to play jazz.

The Guardian - Music

Luiz made no attempt to play the ball.

Independent

Player One must attempt to play the ball.

Independent

That was not an attempt to play this down".

The Guardian

This camcorder makes no attempt to play "smaller than thou".

The New York Times

As of now, they will still attempt to play some winter sports starting Saturday.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Japan's attempt to play tricks with concept … and mislead world opinion is doomed to failure".

The Guardian

After their attempt to play at the Nassau Coliseum was blocked, they negotiated nightly rentals at the Garden.

The New York Times

This effect was highlighted by her unsuccessful attempt to play the object in last night's season finale.

Huffington Post

If you attempt to play this again, you'll get a message that says that set one record a day.

WikiHow

Robinson said in a Lead Sports video posted recently that he will attempt to play in the NFL.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "attempt to play" when you want to emphasize the effort made, regardless of the outcome. For instance, "Despite the rain, they made an "attempt to play" the match".

Common error

Avoid using "attempt to play" in very informal contexts. Phrases like "try to play" or "have a go at playing" are more appropriate for casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attempt to play" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as an infinitive following another verb (e.g., "He will attempt to play") or as part of a longer phrase. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

22%

Sports

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Science

6%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "attempt to play" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe an effort or intention to engage in a playing activity. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely used, as reflected in the various examples provided. While appropriate for most situations, it is best suited for neutral to slightly formal contexts. For more casual conversations, consider alternatives such as "try to play". Overall, understanding the nuances of "attempt to play" ensures clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

try to play

Focuses on the act of trying, simpler and more direct.

make an effort to play

Highlights the exertion involved in playing.

endeavor to play

Adds a sense of formality and determination.

seek to play

Highlights the intention or aspiration to play.

aim to play

Emphasizes the goal or objective of playing.

strive to play

Implies effort and struggle in the attempt.

set out to play

Emphasizes the initial intention and starting point.

take a shot at playing

More informal, suggests a casual attempt.

give playing a try

Informal, emphasizes the trial aspect.

have a go at playing

Informal, British English, meaning to try something.

FAQs

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

You can use "attempt to play" when you want to describe an effort to engage in playing a game, instrument, or any activity that involves play. For example: "The team will "try to play" their best despite the injury.".

What are some alternatives to "attempt to play"?

Some alternatives include "try to play", "endeavor to play", or "make an effort to play", depending on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is "attempt to play" formal or informal?

"Attempt to play" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. In very informal contexts, using "try to play" or "have a go at playing" may be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "attempt to play" and "try to play"?

While both phrases are similar, "attempt to play" often implies a more deliberate and potentially challenging effort, whereas "try to play" is more general and less emphatic about the level of effort involved.