last attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "last attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is the final occasion for something to happen or be attempted. Example sentence: His last attempt to fix the broken window proved to be futile.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

During their last attempt, last week, the judge furiously refused.

The New York Times

The last attempt, on Tuesday, was unavailing.

The New York Times

The last attempt at restoration was in 1994.

The Economist

On Steinmetz's last attempt, the propeller had snapped in half.

The New Yorker

Maccabi failed in its last attempt in 1989.

The New York Times - Sports

They broke apart at the last attempt in 2009.

The Guardian - Sport

"This was my last attempt, no matter what.

The Guardian

That was his last attempt at a negotiation.

The New York Times

There was one last attempt by the Pacers.

The New York Times - Sports

That's despite their last attempt being thrown out.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is their last attempt to stay as gallery employees.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "last attempt" to clearly signal the finality of an action, especially when previous efforts have not succeeded. This adds emphasis and clarity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "last attempt" when there is a possibility of future tries. The phrase implies that there will be no further opportunities or actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "last attempt" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the final effort made to achieve a specific goal, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "last attempt" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that signifies the final effort to achieve a goal. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's appropriate across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedias, with a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure that you intend to convey the finality of the action. Alternatives like "final effort" or "last-ditch effort" can provide similar emphasis. With its clear and consistent meaning, "last attempt" is a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

final effort

Emphasizes the exertion of energy in a conclusive manner.

last resort

Indicates the final option available when all others have failed.

ultimate endeavor

Highlights the ambition and significance of the final undertaking.

concluding endeavor

Highlights the act of bringing an activity to a close.

last-ditch effort

Implies a final, often risky, attempt to avert failure.

desperate measure

Conveys a sense of urgency and risk in the concluding action.

eleventh-hour attempt

Indicates an effort made at the very last possible moment.

final throw of the dice

Suggests a gamble or chance taken as a last resort.

terminal move

Implies an action that is the final step in a process or strategy.

swan song

Refers to a final performance or act before retirement or closure.

FAQs

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

Use "last attempt" to describe a final effort to achieve a goal. For example, "His last attempt to fix the car failed dramatically".

What are some alternatives to "last attempt"?

You can use alternatives like "final effort", "last-ditch effort", or "ultimate endeavor" depending on the context.

Is it okay to use "last attempt" in formal writing?

Yes, "last attempt" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when you need to clearly convey the finality of an action or effort.

What's the difference between "last attempt" and "previous attempt"?

"Last attempt" refers to the final try, with no further attempts expected. "Previous attempt" simply refers to an earlier try, and does not necessarily imply that it's the final one.