To attempt something means to try to do it, especially when success isn't guaranteed. When you attempt a difficult math problem, you're giving it your best effort even though you might not solve it. When a gymnast attempts a new flip, she's working toward landing it successfully.

An attempt is both the effort you make and the specific try itself. You might say, “I made three attempts to beat that level in the video game” or “Her first attempt at baking bread didn't turn out well, but her second attempt was delicious.”

Attempt carries a sense of challenge or uncertainty. You wouldn't say you “attempted” to tie your shoes if you've tied them successfully a thousand times. But you might attempt to learn a new language, attempt to climb a rock wall for the first time, or attempt to convince your parents to get a dog. The outcome is uncertain, but you're willing to try.

Scientists attempt experiments. Explorers attempt dangerous journeys. Students attempt scholarship exams. Each attempt teaches you something, whether you succeed or not. Thomas Edison attempted thousands of different materials before finding one that worked for the light bulb filament. Every attempt brought him closer to success.