What is the Difference Between Attempt and Try?

The words "attempt" and "try" have similar meanings, but there are some differences in their usage and connotation:

1. Formality: "Attempt" is more formal and is often used in formal writing and speech, while "try" is more informal and used in casual conversations and less formal writing.
2. Purpose: "Try" means to make an effort to do something, and the focus is on the activity itself rather than reaching a goal. On the other hand, "attempt" is typically used for actions that are more difficult or challenging, and may not lead to success.
3. Result: The result is more important than just doing the activity when using "attempt," whereas the effort is on doing the activity more than reaching a goal when using "try".
4. Context: "Try" is often used when speaking about something that someone may not have done before. "Attempt" can be used in situations that are more difficult or more official.

Here are some examples to illustrate the differences:

• I tried cooking a new recipe for the first time. (Informal, focus on the activity)
• I attempted to cook a new recipe for the first time. (Formal, focus on the challenge)
• She tried to solve the puzzle but couldn't finish it. (Informal, focus on the effort)
• She attempted to solve the puzzle but couldn't finish it. (Formal, focus on the challenge)

In summary, "try" is more informal and focuses on the effort or activity, while "attempt" is more formal and emphasizes the challenge or difficulty of the task.

Comparative Table: Attempt vs Try

The words "attempt" and "try" have similar meanings, but there are some differences in their usage and context:

In summary, "attempt" is a more formal word used in situations that involve difficulty or official contexts, while "try" is an informal word used in everyday conversations and less formal writing. The choice between "attempt" and "try" depends on the context, formality, and whether the situation involves a difficult task or a goal to achieve.