make an attempt at

USAGE SUMMARY

"make an attempt at" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to do something and are not sure if you can succeed. For example: I will make an attempt at fixing the broken computer, but I'm not sure I have the skills to do it.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

But we are going to make an attempt at one.

The Guardian - Film

In this paper, I make an attempt at rethinking the relationship between context and text for translation.

Journal of Pragmatics

It amazes me they can even make an attempt at competing with some of the bigger rugby nations.

Independent

"It was very clear to our controllers that he was going to make an attempt at the Hudson".

The Guardian

In this assignment, you will need to make an attempt at applying the theory you are learning in class to a real-life case scenario.

University of California, Berkeley

Davis stepped into position to field the ball, but did not make an attempt at it with his glove, thinking it was going foul.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Cameron made an attempt at this.

Independent

Trump made an attempt at chivalry.

The Guardian

Yesterday, Madonna made an attempt at reconciliation.

The Guardian - Music

1: you made an attempt at solving the problems.

Cornell University

The Nets made an attempt at a third-quarter comeback.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make an attempt at" when you want to emphasize the effort being put into something, even if the outcome is uncertain. For example, "I will make an attempt at learning Spanish this year."

Common error

While "make an attempt at" is a valid phrase, avoid overusing it in your writing. Vary your language by using simpler alternatives like "try" or "attempt" to keep your writing concise and engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make an attempt at" functions as a verb phrase indicating an effort or endeavor to perform a particular action. It highlights the process of trying, whether or not success is guaranteed. Ludwig AI indicates that it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

20%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make an attempt at" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the act of trying to do something, often when the outcome is uncertain. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's perfectly acceptable in written English. While it conveys effort and intention, it's essential to use it judiciously and consider simpler alternatives like "try" to avoid redundancy. It appears most frequently in "News & Media", academic, and scientific contexts, as evidenced by the examples provided. In summary, "make an attempt at" is a versatile phrase that can effectively communicate effort, but should be used thoughtfully to maintain clarity and conciseness in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

try to

More concise and generally interchangeable, though slightly less formal.

make an effort to

Similar in meaning, focusing on the exertion of effort.

endeavor to

More formal and suggests a serious or determined effort.

strive to

Implies a sustained effort against obstacles.

seek to

Suggests aiming or trying to achieve a specific goal.

venture to

Implies a willingness to take a risk or do something daring.

take a shot at

Informal and suggests a casual attempt.

give it a go

Very informal and British English, meaning to try something.

have a crack at

Informal, mainly British, suggesting an attempt at something.

take a stab at

Suggests an initial or tentative attempt.

FAQs

What does "make an attempt at" mean?

The phrase "make an attempt at" means to try to do something, often implying that the outcome is uncertain or that the task may be difficult. It emphasizes the effort being made.

How can I use "make an attempt at" in a sentence?

You can use "make an attempt at" to describe trying to accomplish something. For example, "She will make an attempt at finishing the marathon despite her injury."

What are some alternatives to "make an attempt at"?

Some alternatives include "try to", "endeavor to", or "strive to", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "make an attempt at" and simply saying "attempt"?

While both convey the idea of trying, "make an attempt at" emphasizes the action and effort involved. Using "attempt" directly can be more concise. For example, "She will attempt the climb" is shorter than "She will make an attempt at the climb".