commendable try

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commendable try" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to acknowledge someone's effort or attempt at something, especially when the outcome may not have been successful but the effort is appreciated. Example: "Although the project didn't turn out as expected, it was a commendable try, and I appreciate the hard work you put into it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

While the sentiment behind it might have been commendable -- trying to tap into the spirit of social activism and political awareness -- the company and its in-house advertising agency failed to see how a cynical public might react to what was a fairly obvious effort to co-opt those values in order to sell a product.

Forbes

Despite a commendable effort by the authors to try to address the concerns raised by the reviewers, the revised manuscript fails to meet the high standards of scholarship expected for publication in eLife.

eLife

While it is commendable to try to protect Rivera, the Yankees should be greedy now that Rivera has stressed he is healthy.

The New York Times - Sports

Ronaldinho tries to score with a back-heel from seven or eight yards, but doesn't get enough purchase on the ball and his commendable effort is foiled.

The Guardian - Sport

By agreeing to an extension, the EU has displayed considerable forbearance and a commendable willingness to try to help save Britain from itself and a calamity Brexit that would hurt us and them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr Davis's last act as governor was to sign Senate Bill Two, which has the commendable aim of trying to extend health insurance to the 6m Californians who do not currently have it.

The Economist

Even Ms. Norton's political opponents in Colorado say that her office did a commendable job in trying to get compensation for the damage, though they criticize her for not pressing criminal charges.

The New York Times

As far as we can tell, Mr. Ridge has done a vigorous and commendable job of trying to redirect and coordinate the work of these organizations and has just proposed a hefty but reasonable increase in spending by many of them.

The New York Times

Stand-in Australia skipper Bailey played with an effectiveness that was particularly commendable given the trying circumstances surrounding his team.

BBC

The state Department of Corporations does a commendable job in trying to curtail financial fraud.

Los Angeles Times

Aslan did a commendable job of trying to restore nuance to the conversation and shed light on the complexity of the Muslim-majority world.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "commendable try" to acknowledge effort even when the outcome isn't fully successful. It softens criticism and encourages future attempts.

Common error

Avoid using "commendable try" in highly formal or critical evaluations. Opt for stronger, more precise language to accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commendable try" functions as an adjectival phrase followed by a noun, modifying the noun "try". It serves to express approval or appreciation for an attempt or effort, as recognized by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "commendable try" is a grammatically sound way to acknowledge and appreciate effort, even when the result isn't a complete success. As Ludwig AI also highlights, while grammatically correct, its frequency of use appears limited. Alternative phrases like ""praiseworthy attempt"" or ""admirable effort"" may offer slightly more formality depending on the context. When using this phrase, keep in mind its positive connotation and its effectiveness in encouraging further attempts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

praiseworthy attempt

Emphasizes the value and merit of the attempt itself.

admirable effort

Highlights the quality and worthiness of the effort expended.

creditable endeavor

Focuses on the worthiness and respectability of the undertaking.

notable attempt

Highlights the significance or prominence of the attempt.

laudable effort

Stresses the deservingness of praise for the effort made.

meritorious endeavor

Emphasizes the deservingness of reward or recognition for the undertaking.

respectable attempt

Suggests the attempt was worthy of respect, even if unsuccessful.

sterling effort

Highlights the high quality and value of the effort.

valiant attempt

Emphasizes the courage or bravery associated with the attempt.

remarkable endeavor

Highlights the unusual or noteworthy nature of the undertaking.

FAQs

How can I use "commendable try" in a sentence?

You can use "commendable try" to acknowledge someone's effort, even if the outcome was not entirely successful. For example, "Although the experiment failed, it was a commendable try".

What are some alternatives to "commendable try"?

You can use alternatives like "praiseworthy attempt", "admirable effort", or "creditable endeavor" depending on the context.

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

Both "commendable try" and "commendable attempt" are grammatically correct, but "commendable attempt" might sound slightly more formal. The best choice depends on the specific context and your desired tone.

What does it imply when someone describes something as a "commendable try"?

It usually implies that the effort was appreciated and worthwhile, even if it didn't achieve the desired result. It is a way of acknowledging the positive aspects of the attempt.