Attempted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💪
Add to dictionary

attempted

[əˈtɛmptɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

try, effort

The term 'attempted' refers to the action of trying or making an effort to accomplish something. It implies that the action was initiated but may not have been successful. 'Attempted' is often used in legal contexts to describe efforts to commit a crime without completing the act. It can also be used in everyday language to describe efforts in various situations, highlighting the act of trying rather than the outcome.

Synonyms

endeavored, sought, strived, tried.

Examples of usage

  • She attempted to climb the mountain.
  • The student attempted to solve the complex problem.
  • He attempted to fix the broken machine.
  • They attempted a new recipe for dinner.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In law, 'attempted' is often used in terms like 'attempted murder,' meaning a person tried to commit the act but didn't complete it.
  • The legal concept of attempt signifies that even if the action isn't completed, the intention and action to commit it are considered serious.

Psychology

  • Studies show that the act of attempting something, even if we fail, can boost our confidence, making us more likely to try again in the future.
  • Fear of failure can discourage us from attempting new things, but positive experiences can help overcome this fear and encourage exploration.

Pop Culture

  • In sports, athletes often mention their attempts at record-breaking performances, showcasing the determination to push beyond limits.
  • Movies frequently highlight the theme of 'trying and failing' as characters attempt challenging tasks, which makes their eventual successes more rewarding.

Education

  • Teachers encourage students to embrace attempts in learning, as every effort contributes to growth and understanding, regardless of the outcome.
  • The concept of 'growth mindset' promotes the importance of attempting, suggesting that persistence leads to improvement over time.

Origin of 'attempted'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'attempt' comes from the Latin 'attemptare,' meaning 'to try or to test,' which emphasizes the effort in trying.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, reflecting a time when many words from Latin were becoming common in English.

The word 'attempted' is derived from the verb 'attempt,' which comes from the Latin 'attemptare,' a form of 'temptare,' meaning to try or to test. The word evolved through Middle English as 'attempte,' which further developed in use during the late 14th century. As English evolved, 'attempt' became a more formalized term used in legal and academic contexts to denote efforts made towards a specific goal. It is frequently used in legal language, particularly when discussing incomplete actions or efforts that did not culminate in success, indicating both the action taken and its potential ramifications.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,392, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.