flimsy attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flimsy attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an effort that is weak, insubstantial, or lacking in seriousness or effectiveness. Example: "His flimsy attempt to justify his actions only made the situation worse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Unfortunately, this flimsy attempt neither stands nor delivers.

The Guardian - Film

He rejected the charges, calling them "a flimsy attempt at character assassination".

The Guardian

What "King Arthur" amounts to is a very labored and very flimsy attempt to charm.

The New York Times - Arts

He said that the charges were "fabricated" and had been rejected by Interpol, while Al-Jazeera described it as a "flimsy attempt at character assassination".

Independent

Widely dismissed as an inept propaganda exercise, the site has generated overwhelmingly negative feedback ("Don't need, don't want," runs one pithy post; "A flimsy attempt to make people easier to control", says another).

The Economist

The U.K.'s position is that the Islands will remain British unless their three thousand or so inhabitants express a wish that it be otherwise; the Argentineans, along with Penn, see this as a flimsy attempt at perpetuating a historic theft.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Titanfall was a more egregious example of this, with the final game having a handful of multiplayer modes and the flimsiest attempt at a single-player story in recent memory.

Forbes

Like the bold 49ers runners who kept running around and over and through the Jets' flimsy tackling attempts, end John Abraham knew the session was coming.

The New York Times - Sports

Refugees and migrants continue to risk their lives aboard flimsy rafts in an attempt to start anew in Europe, in spite of the apparent risks.

Huffington Post

He seemed kind of still so I grabbed an empty false eyelashes container, which is a flimsy plastic box, and attempted to trap my uninvited guest.

Huffington Post

Neighborliness: It is good manners to shelter unfortunate fellow pedestrians, covering their heads with a flimsy sheet of newspaper in vain attempt to ward off a spot of "wintry mix".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using "flimsy attempt" when critiquing an argument, plan, or action that lacks a solid foundation or is poorly executed.

Common error

Avoid using "flimsy attempt" in highly formal or academic writing where a more precise and objective critique might be more appropriate. Alternatives like "inadequate measure" or "poorly executed try" could provide a more suitable tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flimsy attempt" functions primarily as an adjective-noun combination, where "flimsy" modifies "attempt". It serves to qualify the nature of the attempt, indicating its weakness or lack of substance. Ludwig AI examples show it frequently used to critique actions or arguments.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

12%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "flimsy attempt" is a grammatically sound and understandable way to describe an effort that is weak, insubstantial, or poorly executed. According to Ludwig AI, it is a valid expression. While acceptable in various contexts, including News & Media and even academia, more formal situations might warrant stronger or precise vocabulary. When using this phrase, remember to be specific in explaining why the attempt is considered "flimsy" to enhance the impact of your critique. Be mindful of context and consider alternative phrases like "weak endeavor" or "feeble effort" when a more formal tone is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

weak endeavor

Focuses on the lack of strength or effectiveness in the undertaking.

feeble effort

Highlights the lack of vigor or force in the attempt.

poorly executed try

Emphasizes the inadequate implementation or performance of the attempt.

inadequate measure

Suggests the attempt falls short of what is required or expected.

half-hearted effort

Implies a lack of commitment or enthusiasm in the attempt.

superficial undertaking

Highlights the lack of depth or thoroughness in the attempt.

token gesture

Suggests the attempt is made merely for appearance, without genuine intention.

insufficient action

Focuses on the inadequacy of the attempt to achieve the desired outcome.

unconvincing endeavor

Emphasizes the lack of credibility or persuasiveness in the attempt.

lame try

An informal way of saying the attempt was weak or uninspired.

FAQs

How can I use "flimsy attempt" in a sentence?

You can use "flimsy attempt" to describe something lacking in substance or strength. For example, "His flimsy attempt to justify his actions only made the situation worse."

What's a good alternative to "flimsy attempt"?

Alternatives to "flimsy attempt" include "weak endeavor", "feeble effort", or "inadequate measure". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "flimsy attempt" too informal for academic writing?

While "flimsy attempt" is understandable, it might be perceived as slightly informal for academic writing. Consider using more formal alternatives such as "inadequate measure" or "poorly executed try" for greater precision.

What makes an attempt "flimsy"?

An attempt is considered "flimsy" when it lacks a solid foundation, is poorly thought out, or is executed in a weak or ineffective manner. It suggests a lack of substance or serious effort.