attempt
verb (used with object)
to make an effort at; try; undertake; seek.
were attempting
-
past progressiveof attempt.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
Navy vessels — and eight oil tankers it claimed were attempting to pass through a “prohibited and unsafe” part of the Strait of Hormuz.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 9, 2026
They were attempting to keep the fire from approaching the western outskirts of Athens after it scaled a mountain overnight.
From Barron's ● Aug. 2, 2026
The 27-year-old and his colleagues were attempting to carry out a safe burial at a cemetery in Bunia, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, last month when they were attacked.
From BBC ● Jul. 9, 2026
Doncic had just been called for an offensive foul while the Lakers were attempting to inbound the ball.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 28, 2026
After eight months, the blackouts seemed to be getting worse, as if her soul were attempting to live in two different time periods at once.
From "The Son of Neptune" by Rick Riordan
