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.
run-up
The acceleration phase before a sports action such as a jump or throw, in order to gain momentum.
Die Hochspringerin nahm einen langen Anlauf, um über die Latte zu kommen.
The high jumper took a long run-up to get over the bar.
start-up
The initial phase when starting a technical process, for example a machine or a production line.
Der Anlauf der neuen Fertigungsstraße verlief ohne größere Probleme.
The start-up of the new production line went without any major problems.
'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.
attempt / experiment
Versuch and Anlauf can both refer to the effort to achieve a goal. Anlauf, however, especially means a distinct, often renewed start after an unsuccessful attempt and is often counted. Versuch is more general and also works for a first or single attempt.
Im zweiten Anlauf schaffte ich es, die schwere Kiste allein zu tragen.
On my second attempt, I managed to carry the heavy box by myself.
Mein Versuch, die schwere Kiste allein zu tragen, scheiterte.
My attempt to carry the heavy box by myself failed.
