Meaning of attempt In English

• 0 to try to do something, especially something difficult:

  • [ + to infinitive ] He attempted to escape through a window.

  • He attempted a joke, but no one laughed.

  • There's no point in even attempting an explanation - he'll never listen.

• 1 the act of trying to do something, especially something difficult:

  • [ + to infinitive ] She made a few half-hearted attempts to join in their conversation.

  • He made no attempt to be sociable.

  • This is my second attempt at the exam.

  • None of our attempts at contacting Dr James was successful.

  • They closed the road in an attempt (= to try to) to reduce traffic in the city.

  • This is the third attempt on the President's life.

• 2 an act of trying to score a goal in a game of football:

  • Chelsea had several attempts on goal in the first 15 minutes.

• 3 to try to make or do something:

  • [ T ] The team’s quarterback attempted only 12 passes during the entire game.

  • [ + to infinitive ] Don’t attempt to do these tricks at home.

• 4 the act of trying to make or do something:

  • [ + to infinitive ] The pilot made several attempts to regain control of the aircraft.

  • a failed attempt on the president’s life