attempting to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "attempting to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an effort or endeavor to achieve something. Example: "She is attempting to learn a new language before her trip abroad."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

He's attempting to coöperate.

The New Yorker

He's attempting to heal everything.

Independent

He's attempting to repeat the allegation.

The Guardian

She is attempting to have it all.

Independent

Retailers are attempting to monetise the mood.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Bubbles attempting to get clean: no Bubbles.

The Guardian

They are attempting to auction Liverpool.

The New York Times - Sports

Bubbles attempting to get clean: nope.

The Guardian

("I'm attempting to salvage the brand").

The New Yorker

While attempting to escape, Maxentius drowned.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some governments were attempting to cooperate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pair "attempting to" with strong verbs to emphasize the action being undertaken (e.g., "attempting to revolutionize", "attempting to dismantle").

Common error

Avoid using "attempting to" in casual conversations or informal writing. Alternatives like "trying to" or "aiming to" are often more appropriate and sound less stilted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "attempting to" functions as part of a verb phrase, specifically as a progressive aspect marker indicating an ongoing or intended action. As Ludwig AI shows, this phrase is frequently used to describe efforts being made towards a particular goal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "attempting to" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to indicate an ongoing effort or intention. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across varied sources. While suitable for formal contexts like news and academic writing, simpler alternatives may be preferred in casual communication. Its frequency underscores its importance in expressing purposeful action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

trying to

Expresses a general effort or trial, very similar to "attempting to" but less formal.

endeavoring to

A more formal and emphatic way of saying "attempting to", suggesting a serious or determined effort.

seeking to

Implies a directed effort towards a specific goal or outcome.

aiming to

Focuses on the objective or target of the effort.

striving to

Highlights the effort and struggle involved in achieving something.

working to

Suggests ongoing effort and action towards a goal.

looking to

Indicates an intention or plan to do something in the future.

planning to

Focuses on the preparation and intention behind the effort.

managing to

Emphasizes the process of succeeding in doing something, often in difficult circumstances.

desiring to

Highlights the wish or want behind the effort, suggesting motivation.

FAQs

How can I use "attempting to" in a sentence?

You can use "attempting to" to describe an action someone is trying to perform, like "The company is "attempting to" expand its market share" or "He is "attempting to" resolve the issue."

What are some alternatives to "attempting to"?

You can use alternatives like "trying to", "seeking to", or "aiming to" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "attempting to" or "trying to"?

Both "attempting to" and "trying to" are grammatically correct, but "attempting to" is more formal. Use "attempting to" in formal writing and "trying to" in informal contexts.

What's the difference between "attempting to" and "intending to"?

"Attempting to" implies action, while "intending to" suggests a plan or purpose. You attempt something by taking action, while you intend something by planning it.