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Definitions

attempt

[uh-tempt] / əˈtɛmpt /
NOUN
try, effort
Synonyms
STRONGEST
attack bid endeavor experiment pursuit shot struggle try
STRONG
crack exertion fling go header lick stab striving trial tryout undertaking venture whack workout
WEAK
all one's got dry run one's all one's darnedest one's level best
Antonyms
STRONGEST
retreat surrender
WEAK
certainty laziness success
VERB
try, make effort
Synonyms
STRONGEST
pursue seek solicit tackle undertake
STRONG
aim attack endeavor essay experiment push strive venture
WEAK
do level best exert oneself give a fling give a whirl give best shot give it a go give it a try give old college try go the limit have a crack have a go at make a run at shoot the works take a stab at take best shot take on try one's hand at
Antonyms
STRONGEST
forget neglect
STRONG
be idle
WEAK
be lazy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But there are clouds on the horizon for cinema owners, said O'Leary, with unease over Paramount's attempt to swallow Warner Bros.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

King Charles is likely to attempt a delicate repair job during his trip to Washington later this month, but for now Whitehall officials admit the president's unpredictability will continue.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

Let’s now attempt to gauge where the stock might head next.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

Foundayo is Eli Lilly’s attempt to counter Novo Nordisk’s successful launch of a pill version of its Wegovy drug, which it has been selling since the start of this year.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

I made a half-hearted attempt to find my hat in the dark but gave up almost instantly and stuffed my hair haphazardly into the neck of my shirt.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

Vocabulary lists containing attempt

"Seventh Grade" by Gary Soto

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American Football, 1st Quarter

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Nothing But the Truth

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!