trying
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.very difficult, stressful, or annoying to deal with.
adj.taxing to one's patience, nerves, or physical endurance; describes circumstances that are arduous or irritating.
Simple“It has been a very trying day at the office with all the technical problems.”
In context“The long delays and lack of communication made the journey a trying experience for even the most seasoned travellers.”
Teacher's tipLearners often confuse this with 'tiring'. While 'tiring' means you lose energy, 'trying' means your patience or strength is being tested.
- 02 B1 Intermediate
n.the act of attempting or testing something.
n.the act of making an attempt or trial; used as a gerund to describe the process of effort.
Simple“The trying of new recipes is her favourite way to spend a Sunday afternoon.”
In context“Constant trying and failing is often a necessary part of the scientific method before a breakthrough occurs.”
Usage trying to get · trying to make · trying to keep
From try + -ing.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.