Attempted Meaning in English
word · lemma: attempt
Definition
Past form of 'attempt' when used as a verb, meaning tried to do something. It can also be an adjective before a noun, describing something that someone tried to do but may not have completed or achieved.
Usage & Nuances
As a verb form, 'attempted' is often followed by an infinitive: 'attempted to call'. As an adjective, it commonly appears in formal contexts such as 'attempted murder' or 'attempted robbery'. Don't confuse it with 'tried'—'tried' is more common in everyday speech, while 'attempted' sounds more formal.
Example Sentences
He attempted to open the door.
basic
She attempted the test, but she did not finish it.
basic
The police stopped an attempted robbery.
basic
I attempted to fix it myself, but I made it worse.
natural
She attempted to sound calm, but everyone noticed she was nervous.
natural
They attempted to reach us earlier, but our phones were off.
natural