vain attempt
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.
Wertz called several draft-age men in a vain attempt to prove the speech discouraged registration.
From Washington Post • Apr. 1, 2023
Geno Smith threw an interception on a vain attempt to Tyler Lockett.
From Seattle Times • Sep. 25, 2022
The 32-year-old from Northern Ireland went for broke with his 64 on Sunday, his most exciting golf since that vain attempt to make the cut at Royal Portrush in the Open of 2019.
From BBC • Apr. 11, 2022
When their dogs realize they are being left behind, they “set up a dismal howl,” leaping into the icy waters of the Mississippi in a vain attempt to follow.
From New York Times • Apr. 5, 2021
“No, nor felt such thorns,” returned Laurie, with his thumb in his mouth, after a vain attempt to capture a solitary scarlet flower that grew just beyond his reach.
From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott
