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.
    By his blindness maimed for high attempts.   --Milton.
 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.
 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.

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