ENGLISH
REFERENCE

trying

adj. · n.
US //ˈtɹaɪɪŋ// UK //tɹˈaɪɪŋ// try·ing
  1. 1 difficult to endure (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    very difficult, stressful, or annoying to deal with.

    taxing to one's patience, nerves, or physical endurance; describes circumstances that are arduous or irritating.

    Example

    It has been a very trying day at the office with all the technical problems.

    Example

    The long delays and lack of communication made the journey a trying experience for even the most seasoned travellers.

    Teacher's tip

    Learners often confuse this with 'tiring'. While 'tiring' means you lose energy, 'trying' means your patience or strength is being tested.
  2. 2 an attempt (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the act of attempting or testing something.

    the act of making an attempt or trial; used as a gerund to describe the process of effort.

    Example

    The trying of new recipes is her favourite way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

    Example

    Constant trying and failing is often a necessary part of the scientific method before a breakthrough occurs.
Origin

From try + -ing.

Word family
  • Verbtry
  • Verbtrying

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