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REFERENCE

tried

v. · adj.
US //ˈtɹaɪd// UK //tɹˈaɪd// tried
  1. 1 made an effort (v.)
    A1 Beginner

    the past tense of 'try', used when you made an effort to do something.

    the past tense and past participle of 'try', indicating a past attempt or effort to achieve a goal.

    Example

    I tried to call you three times yesterday, but your phone was off.

    Example

    The research team tried several different chemical combinations before finally identifying the one that remained stable at room temperature.
  2. 2 proven and reliable (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    tested and proven to be good or effective over a long time.

    having been tested and found to be reliable, effective, or trustworthy through experience.

    Example

    Using a map is a tried and tested way to find your way in the woods.

    Example

    The company relies on tried and trusted manufacturing techniques that have ensured the durability of their products for decades.
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  1. 3 judged in court (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

    having been officially judged in a court of law.

    having undergone a formal judicial examination or trial in a court of law.

    Example

    The man was tried for the crime and found not guilty.

    Example

    Under the current legal system, the defendant must be tried by a jury of their peers to ensure a fair and impartial verdict.
  2. 4 tested something (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    the past tense of 'try', meaning you tested something to see if it worked or if you liked it.

    the past tense of 'try', used to indicate the act of testing the quality, effect, or appeal of something.

    Example

    She tried the soup and decided it needed a little more salt.

    Example

    The pilot tried the new navigation system during a short flight to ensure all the sensors were calibrated correctly.
Origin

From Middle English tried, tryed, equivalent to try + -ed.

Idioms2 entries

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