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Definition and meaning of English word "try"

try

/traɪ/

Meaning

Verb

To attempt; to endeavour. Followed by infinitive.

Reviewed by the TheLernen language teamDefinition sourced from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0)

How to use

The verb 'try' is often used with an infinitive to express an attempt to do something. For example, 'I'm trying to learn French.' A common learner mistake is using 'try' with a gerund, which can change the meaning, as in 'I'm trying eating a new restaurant.'

🇬🇧 English

try

Example

I will try to learn this language.

She tried to open the door, but it was locked.

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Synonyms

attemptendeavourmake an effort

Common phrases

  • try on— try on
  • try out— try out
  • try to— try to

More Core Verbs words

Frequency rank: #363 in English

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the English word "try" mean?▼

The English word "try" means "try" in English.

How do you pronounce the English word "try"?▼

You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "try" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.

Can I see an example sentence with "try"?▼

Yes, here is a practical example: "I will try to learn this language." (which translates as "try").

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