attempt
verb (used with object)
to make an effort at; try; undertake; seek.
have attempted
-
present perfectof attempt.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
Both candidates have attempted to lean away from partisan narratives.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 13, 2026
Anthropic, the AI tech company behind Claude, released a report Thursday detailing how bad actors have attempted to use its products for nefarious ends, from scams and mass surveillance to biological weapons development.
From Salon ● Sep. 11, 2026
Maybe that was an intentional rebuttal to the way the powers that be have attempted to dismiss the movement.
From Slate ● Sep. 8, 2026
A number of postindustrial cities, including Detroit and St. Louis, have attempted similar strategies to reduce blight, but Baltimore’s recent progress stands out.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 17, 2026
In an effort to supply this natural food, the Canadians have attempted to transplant caddis fly larvae and other insects to the barren reaches of the Miramichi.
From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson
