# try to

CEFR A1 · Fixed phrase

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/try-to
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to make an effort to do something, even if you are not sure you will succeed.

For teachers: a catenative construction used to express an attempt or intention to perform an action, followed by a to-infinitive.

## Examples

- I will try to call you later today.
- Please try to be on time for the meeting because we have a lot to discuss.
- The government must try to balance the needs of the economy with the urgent requirement for environmental protection.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I try to calling him." but "I try to call him." — the phrase 'try to' must be followed by the infinitive (base form), not the -ing form.

## Usage notes

- followed by the base form of a verb; in casual speech, people often say 'try and' instead.
- Teaching tip: contrast 'try to do' (making an effort) with 'try doing' (experimenting with a new method) to help students understand the change in meaning with the gerund.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.