attempt
Definitions
To make an effort to do or achieve something, especially something difficult
尝试，试图（去做某事）
An act of trying to do something; an effort
尝试，努力
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedat- (a form of ad-, 'toward') + tempt (try, from temptāre) = 'to try toward something.' Unlike its sibling tempt, this branch never developed the 'lure' meaning — attempt stayed with the neutral 'try' sense. To attempt a goal is to make a test-run toward it. Works as both verb (attempt to climb) and noun (a brave attempt).
Root tempt still carries 6 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.attempt to do试图做……
- 2.make an attempt做出尝试
- 3.a failed attempt一次失败的尝试
- 4.in an attempt to为了……（而努力）
Example Sentences
- 1.
She attempted to fix the engine but soon gave up.
- 2.
This was his third attempt to pass the driving test.
- 3.
Any attempt to escape will be reported to the police.
Easily Confused
attempt vs try — They overlap, but attempt is more formal and usually followed by 'to do' (attempt to solve), while try is everyday and takes both 'to do' and '-ing' (try to call / try calling). 'Try and do' is casual; 'attempt and do' is wrong.