attempt / run-up
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attempt
An attempt to achieve a particular goal or complete a task. The term is often used when the first attempt was not successful.
Nach zwei gescheiterten Versuchen startete das Team einen letzten Anlauf, um das Projekt zu retten.
After two failed attempts, the team launched one last attempt to save the project.
'Der Anlauf' (attempt/run-up/start-up) is derived from the separable verb 'anlaufen' (to start up/to get going). The basic idea of 'starting to run' or 'beginning a movement' appears in all meanings: the start of an attempt, the momentum for a jump, or the start of a machine.
Die Maschine läuft langsam an.
The machine starts up slowly.
You can recognize the meaning from the context. In a sports context, it usually means the momentum before a jump. In connection with projects or goals, it refers to an attempt. With technical devices or in industry, it describes the start-up phase.
Der erste Anlauf, den Weltrekord zu brechen, scheiterte.
The first attempt to break the world record failed.
When 'Anlauf' (attempt) means an attempt, it is often combined with verbs like 'nehmen' (to take), 'starten' (to start/launch), or 'unternehmen' (to undertake). The expression 'im ersten/zweiten Anlauf' (on the first/second attempt) is also very common to express on which attempt something succeeds.
Wir unternehmen einen neuen Anlauf, um eine Lösung zu finden.
We are making a new attempt to find a solution.
In the sports meaning, the fixed expression 'Anlauf nehmen' (to take a run-up) is almost always used. This describes the movement with which an athlete gains momentum for a jump or throw.
Für den perfekten Wurf muss man richtig Anlauf nehmen.
For the perfect throw, you have to take a proper run-up.
start
'der Start' and 'der Anlauf' can both have to do with the beginning of something. 'der Start' is the actual beginning, for example of a race, project, or technical process. 'der Anlauf' often refers to preparation or the first phase before the goal: you build up momentum, make an attempt, or get a machine going slowly. Learners can confuse the words because both are connected to the beginning. But 'Start' is the point at which things get going. 'Anlauf' sounds more like building up momentum, an attempt, or an initial phase that is not yet full operation.
Beim zweiten Anlauf hat Tom die schwierige Aufgabe endlich geschafft.
On the second attempt, Tom finally managed the difficult task.
Der Start der neuen App hat länger gedauert als geplant.
The launch of the new app took longer than planned.