What does attempt mean?
An attempt is an effort made to achieve or accomplish something, often something difficult or uncertain in its outcome. As a verb, to attempt is to set about doing something with intent and energy, whether or not success follows: one might attempt to solve a puzzle, climb a mountain, or learn a new language. As a noun, an attempt is that very act of striving — a try, a bid, an undertaking. The word carries no guarantee of success and can even imply failure, as in phrases like 'an attempted escape.' It appears across registers, from everyday speech to formal and legal language, where terms like 'attempted murder' describe crimes that were begun but not completed. Derived from Latin roots meaning 'to test,' attempt reminds us that trying is fundamentally a kind of experiment — a willingness to find out what is possible.
To make an effort to achieve or complete something difficult.
"She attempted to finish the marathon despite her injury."
Usually followed by 'to' + infinitive.
An act of trying to achieve something; an effort made toward a goal.
"This was his third attempt at passing the exam."
Used when referring to multiple tries or efforts.
"Several attempts were made before the rescue succeeded."
"Attempt" comes from the same Latin root as "tempt" — literally meaning "to test" — so every attempt is really a trial of yourself.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of attempt
Attempt entered English in the late Middle Ages from Old French 'atenter' or directly from Latin 'attemptare', meaning 'to try or tempt,' formed from 'ad-' (toward) plus 'tentare/temperare' related to 'temptare' (to test). It shares this root with words like temptation and contempt. Originally conveying the sense of testing or trying, it gradually settled into its modern meaning of making a deliberate effort to do something.
Related word forms
How attempt is actually used
Commonly used in both formal and informal registers. Often appears in legal contexts (e.g. 'attempted robbery'). The verb frequently takes 'to' + infinitive ('attempt to do') rather than gerund.
Easily confused with attempt
Contempt means scorn or disrespect toward something or someone, whereas attempt is an effort to accomplish a task; they share Latin roots but differ in meaning.