ENGLISH
REFERENCE

trying

v.
A1 Beginner US //ˈtɹaɪɪŋ// UK //tɹˈaɪɪŋ// try·ing

v. to make an effort to do something, even if it is difficult. You use this when you are not sure if you will succeed.

v. to make an attempt or effort to achieve an objective. Transitive when followed by an infinitive or noun phrase; intransitive when the effort itself is the focus.


SIMPLE

I am trying to learn how to cook.

CONTEXTUAL

She is trying a new approach to solve the problem after the first method failed.

COMPLEX

While the philosopher spent years trying to define the nature of truth, he eventually concluded that the pursuit itself was more valuable than any final answer.

Synonyms
Origin

From try + -ing.

Usage

When followed by another verb, it typically takes the 'to' infinitive. In informal speech, 'try and' is often used instead of 'try to'.

Pitfall

I am trying for finish the workI am trying to finish the workThe verb 'try' is followed by the 'to' infinitive, not the preposition 'for'.

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