serious attempt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serious attempt" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing efforts that are earnest or significant in nature, often in the context of trying to achieve a goal or solve a problem. Example: "After several failed attempts, we finally made a serious attempt to address the issue at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It was a serious attempt," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Yet it is a serious attempt to tarnish him.

The New York Times - Books

"It's a serious attempt to clarify a very complex regulation".

The New York Times - Magazine

The last serious attempt at a peace initiative ended disastrously.

The New York Times

"Not a serious attempt, a bottle of paracetamol..."...

The Guardian - Books

For years the country's Congress has blocked any serious attempt at economic reform.

The Economist

But there's never been a serious attempt to follow kids through college.

The New York Times

But this does represent a serious attempt to tame the city's traffic problem.

The Economist

There has been no serious attempt to address any of these problems.

The New York Times

Any serious attempt to rewrite the trade deal will upset America.

The Economist

The last serious attempt to rewrite the law was in 2007.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "serious attempt" to emphasize the significance and sincerity of an effort. This phrase is particularly effective when contrasting it with less committed actions or previous failures. For example: "Despite earlier setbacks, the team made a "serious attempt" to resolve the issue."

Common error

While "serious attempt" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using alternatives like "real try" or "good shot" to maintain a more relaxed tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serious attempt" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "serious" modifies the noun "attempt". It typically describes a significant or earnest undertaking. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and provides numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "serious attempt" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe an earnest and significant effort. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is valid and highlights how it functions primarily as a noun phrase emphasizing commitment and purpose. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it maintains a neutral to professional tone, signaling its appropriateness for formal communication. When a less formal tone is appropriate, writers could choose an alternative such as "real try". "Serious attempt" is a robust expression for describing important efforts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

earnest endeavor

Replaces "attempt" with "endeavor", suggesting a more sustained and dedicated effort while retaining a sense of purpose and commitment.

determined effort

Focuses on the resolve and strength of will behind the effort, highlighting the commitment to overcome obstacles.

genuine effort

Emphasizes the sincerity and authenticity of the effort, indicating that it is not superficial or half-hearted.

significant undertaking

Highlights the scale and importance of the attempt, portraying it as a substantial project or task.

concerted action

Shifts the focus to a coordinated and unified effort, often involving multiple parties working together towards a common goal.

substantial effort

Indicates that a considerable amount of energy and resources have been invested in the attempt.

vigorous effort

Implies an attempt characterized by energy, enthusiasm, and intensity.

resolute endeavor

Combines determination and dedication, suggesting an unwavering commitment to the goal.

major initiative

Presents the attempt as a strategic and impactful undertaking, often with long-term goals.

ambitious undertaking

Highlights the challenging nature of the attempt, suggesting a bold and far-reaching goal.

FAQs

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

You can use "serious attempt" to describe an earnest and determined effort to achieve something. For example: "The company made a "serious attempt" to reduce its carbon footprint."

What can I say instead of "serious attempt"?

You can use alternatives like "earnest endeavor", "determined effort", or "genuine effort" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "serious attempt"?

The phrase "serious attempt" is appropriate when you want to emphasize the dedicated and earnest nature of an effort, often in formal or professional contexts.

What distinguishes a "serious attempt" from a regular attempt?

A "serious attempt" implies a higher degree of commitment, planning, and resources invested compared to a regular attempt. It suggests that the effort is not casual or half-hearted.