Try vs. Attempt

'Try' and 'attempt' are largely synonymous but they have a subtle difference in meaning and form different sentences. Follow the lesson to find out more.

What is the difference between 'try' and 'attempt'?

While both 'try' and 'attempt' refer to the act of making an effort to do or get something, 'attempt' is typically used for actions that are more difficult or challenging and may not lead to success.

Difference in Meaning

'Try' can be used to describe a wide range of actions, from simple and straightforward tasks to more challenging endeavors. On the other hand, 'attempt' is typically used to describe actions that are more difficult or challenging, and may not lead to success. For example:

He tried to win the race.

The climbers attempted to reach the summit.

Grammatical Structure

Both 'try' and 'attempt' can be used with 'to-infinitives' and noun phrases. However, when 'try' is used with a noun phrase, a different meaning is intended. If you try something, you experience or test it for the first time. Pay attention to the examples:

The company attempted to resolve the issue but faced several challenges.

The company attempted a major restructuring to improve efficiency.

I will try to finish the project on time.

I tried the new recipe but I didn't like the result.

Here, 'try' means to experience or undertake something for the first time.

'Try' can also be used with a present participle. In some cases, this structure has the same meaning as 'try + to-infinitive', while in others, it shares its meaning with 'try + noun phrase'. Pay attention to the examples:

I tried calling him but there was no answer. (or 'I tried to call him but there was no answer)

He tried singing in the choir but realized it wasn't his passion.

This sentence has the same meaning as 'try + noun phrase'.

Furthermore, 'attempt' is commonly used in passive structures in which case it implies the attempt failed, while using 'try' in a passive structure changes its meaning. Compare the examples:

A robbery was attempted last night. (We can't say 'A robbery was ~~tried~~ last night.)

This sentence means the robbery was not successful.

He was tried for robbery.

This sentence means the subject was arrested for robbery and appeared in a court of law.

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