make a real attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

"make a real attempt" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing efforts or endeavors to achieve something meaningful or significant. Example: "She decided to make a real attempt at improving her grades this semester." Alternative expressions include "make a genuine effort" and "make a serious effort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Without going overboard, the offending company needs to acknowledge that it has a problem, demonstrate that it has control over that problem, and then make a real attempt to fix it.

The New Yorker

And in theory, at least, they are all equally cherished by their church.It is this latter aspect that Mr Stourton values most, and that keeps him loyal to his religion despite many reservations about its leadership: "Only a church that aspires to universality", he writes, "can make a real attempt to find a common humanity".

The Economist

You have to make a real attempt.

Huffington Post

told members they would make a real attempt to fund government departments through individual spending measures.

Huffington Post

Please take a moment to consider your behavior and make a real attempt at being better next week.

Huffington Post

"The hearings showed people what happens when representatives don't make a real attempt to get to the bottom of issues and to understand how sexual harassment works".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"But I think Clarence is making a real attempt to listen to people.

The New York Times

"It makes a real attempt at being fair," said Ronald L. Gallatin, who represented the landlord, Yorkville Towers Associates, whose general partner is Fred DeMatteis of the DeMatteis Organization in Uniondale, N.Y.

The New York Times

William P. Gallagher of Hop– kinton, Mass., said he had made a "real" attempt to "embrace" the vernacular when it was in troduced several years ago.

The New York Times

He's certainly got physical vitality, and a sexual avidity that, years ago, a director like Elia Kazan would have made a real attempt to shape into the screen-devouring presence of a James Dean or a Warren Beatty.

The New Yorker

While Ms. Fulani and Mr. Buchanan have tried to stress their common economic populism, and particularly their antipathy for free trade, neither has made a real attempt to pretend they had, or would, reach agreement on the issues.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a real attempt" when you want to emphasize that an effort is not superficial, but earnest and substantial. This phrase conveys a sense of commitment and sincerity.

Common error

While "make a real attempt" is generally acceptable, it can sound slightly informal in highly professional or academic writing. Consider using alternatives like "make a genuine effort" or "undertake a thorough endeavor" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a real attempt" functions as a verb phrase, typically used with a verb like 'to' (e.g., to make a real attempt) or within a clause. It expresses the action of genuinely trying to achieve something. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make a real attempt" is a grammatically sound phrase used to convey a sincere and substantial effort towards achieving a goal. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English writing. While not extremely common, it appears across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. To enhance clarity or formality, alternatives such as "make a genuine effort" or "dedicate oneself fully" can be considered. When using this phrase, ensure the context aligns with its neutral register, avoiding overuse in highly formal settings to maintain a polished tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a genuine effort

Emphasizes the sincerity and honesty of the effort.

make a serious effort

Highlights the importance and dedication involved in the effort.

try wholeheartedly

Focuses on the complete and enthusiastic commitment to the attempt.

give it your all

Suggests putting maximum effort and energy into the task.

strive earnestly

Implies a dedicated and sincere effort towards a goal.

make a good-faith effort

Indicates an attempt made with honest intentions and sincerity.

dedicate oneself fully

Highlights the complete commitment and devotion to the endeavor.

exert considerable effort

Emphasizes the significant amount of energy and work put into the attempt.

go the extra mile

Suggests exceeding expectations and putting in more effort than required.

put your heart into it

Focuses on the emotional investment and passion behind the attempt.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "make a real attempt" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases such as "make a genuine effort", "undertake a significant endeavor", or "commit to a substantial attempt". These alternatives often suit academic or professional contexts better.

What does it mean to "make a real attempt"?

To "make a real attempt" signifies putting forth a sincere and considerable effort towards achieving a goal. It implies dedication and a commitment to try one's best.

Is there a difference between "make an attempt" and "make a real attempt"?

"Make an attempt" simply means to try something. "Make a real attempt", on the other hand, emphasizes the sincerity and level of effort involved. It suggests a more committed and earnest approach.

What are some synonyms for "make a real attempt"?

Synonyms include "make a genuine effort", "try wholeheartedly", or "dedicate oneself fully". Each of these emphasizes effort and commitment in a slightly different way.