attempt

Noun

• the act of attacking
  • attacks on women increased last year
    
  • they made an attempt on his life
    

• earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something
  • made an effort to cover all the reading material
    
  • wished him luck in his endeavor
    
  • she gave it a good try
    

Verb

• enter upon an activity or enterprise

• make an effort or attempt
  • He tried to shake off his fears
    
  • The infant had essayed a few wobbly steps
    
  • The police attempted to stop the thief
    
  • He sought to improve himself
    
  • She always seeks to do good in the world
    

Related words

• Synonyms: 
  attack , effort , endeavor , endeavour , try , undertake , set about , seek , essay , assay