attempt

To try to do something, especially something difficult.

• Do not attempt this alone.
• She attempted to climb the highest mountain.
• They have attempted several difficult repairs.

How to use it: attempt to do something (They attempted to repair the roof before the rain.)

Similar words: try

Common phrases: attempt to escape, attempt a climb, attempt a rescue

An act of trying to do something, especially something difficult.

• My first attempt failed.
• He made another attempt to open the door.
• She broke the record on her third attempt.

How to use it: attempt to do something (Her attempt to fix the clock failed.); attempt at something (This is my first attempt at bread making.)

Similar words: try, effort

Common phrases: first attempt, make an attempt, attempt at something

An attack intended to kill or seriously harm someone, whether or not it succeeds.

• The leader survived an assassination attempt.
• Police prevented an attempt on her life.
• Security increased after the second attempt.

How to use it: attempt on someone’s life (The president survived an attempt on his life.)

Similar words: attack

Common phrases: assassination attempt, attempt on someone

An act in which someone tries to end their own life.

• She received medical care after a suicide attempt.
• He survived the attempt and began receiving support.
• The doctor asked about any previous attempts.

Common phrases: suicide attempt, survive an attempt