- Attempt
- Attempt At*tempt", n.
A essay, trial, or endeavor; an undertaking; an attack, or an
effort to gain a point; esp. an unsuccessful, as contrasted
with a successful, effort.
[1913 Webster]
By his blindness maimed for high attempts. --Milton. [1913 Webster]
{Attempt to commit a crime} (Law), such an intentional preparatory act as will apparently result, if not extrinsically hindered, in a crime which it was designed to effect. --Wharton. [1913 Webster]
Syn: {Attempt}, {Endeavor}, {Effort}, {Exertion}, {Trial}.
Usage: These words agree in the idea of calling forth our powers into action. Trial is the generic term; it denotes a putting forth of one's powers with a view to determine what they can accomplish; as, to make trial of one's strength. An attempt is always directed to some definite and specific object; as, ``The attempt, and not the deed, confounds us.'' --Shak. An endeavor is a continued attempt; as, ``His high endeavor and his glad success.'' --Cowper. Effort is a specific putting forth of strength in order to carry out an attempt. Exertion is the putting forth or active exercise of any faculty or power. ``It admits of all degrees of effort and even natural action without effort.'' --C. J. Smith. See {Try}. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.