Definition
企图 (qǐ tú) carries a strong negative connotation — it means 'to attempt' something bad, risky, or underhanded. In contrast, 尝试 (cháng shì) is neutral and used for trying something new or experimental, while 试图 (shì tú) is a more formal, neutral 'attempt' without the negative implication. 企图 can also be a noun meaning 'an attempt or scheme'.
verb
to attempt (usu. something bad or risky)
noun
attemptscheme
Measure word · 种
Examples
- 企图，。Tā qǐ tú cóng yínháng tōu qián, dàn bèi jǐngchá zhuā zhù le.He attempted to steal money from the bank, but was caught by the police.
- 企图，。Dírén qǐ tú pòhuài nà zuò qiáo, dàn méiyǒu chénggōng.The enemy attempted to destroy that bridge, but did not succeed.
- 企图，。Jǐngchá de qǐ tú méiyǒu chénggōng, huàirén pǎo zǒu le.The police's attempt was unsuccessful; the bad guy ran away.
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