try - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
try Word Meanings
- to make an attempt
- to test something
- to exert effort towards an action
try Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
try Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/traɪ/
US
/traɪ/
try Word Etymology
try = trier + -y (to attempt) from Old French (trier) → Middle English (trien) → English. Picture someone trying to lift a heavy object, visualizing sweat and effort, capturing the essence of persistence through attempts.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place my hand on the door handle and lean in. I push, I turn, the latch gives a little and I shift my weight forward. I adjust my grip and hold the door as I step through, letting the space invite me onward. The effort tightens into a quiet choice to keep going.
Real Context
Try is a versatile verb centered on making an effort or attempt, rather than guaranteeing a outcome. It covers three broad senses: to make an attempt to do something (try to + verb), to test or sample something (try a product, try out a method), and to exert effort toward an action (try hard, do one’s best). In everyday speech you’ll hear imperatives or questions like 'Try it!', 'Have you tried calling?', and 'Don’t give up; keep trying.' Native speakers also use phrases like 'give it a try' and 'trying one’s best' to emphasize effort. Learners may confuse try with test or with the noun form in places where effort is meant.
Usage Reminders
- Remember to pair try with to + verb for intentions
- Use try to describe attempting a task, but not guaranteed success
- Differentiate try from test when evaluating or sampling
- Use give it a try to encourage someone, or try my best to emphasize effort
- Avoid using try as a noun in most contexts; prefer a try in formal writing
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing try with test or examine; thinking they are interchangeable
- Using try as a noun (a try) in casual speech instead of phrases like a 'try' or 'attempt'
- Mistaking 'try to' for 'try' in imperative sentences
- Overemphasizing the outcome and ignoring effort (try hard, do your best)
- Forgetting collocations like 'give it a try' or 'trying one's best'
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, try centers on effort and possibility rather than guaranteed success; learners often default to a transactional sense of attempting, missing the nuance of persistence.
Learning Tips
- Practice with phrasal phrases like 'try it', 'try again', 'give it a try'
- Notice difference between 'try to' and 'try' without to
- Use modal-like encouragement 'you should try' to give life to advice
- Watch for negatives: 'don’t try to' vs 'try not to'
- Compare 'try' with 'test' in contexts of evaluation
- Keep track of effort vs outcome in long tasks
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which option best defines the word 'try'?
A.To finish something successfully
B.To give an effort or attempt to do something
C.To buy or sell goods
D.To teach someone a skill
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'try' correctly?
A.He try to open the door without knocking
B.They try the idea means they agree
C.I'll try to solve the problem before class
D.We try the cake last night at the party
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'try'?
A.attempt
B.succeed
C.purchase
D.observe
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an opposite (antonym) of 'try'?
A.attempt
B.begin
C.give up
D.repeat
Step 5: Mastery
Which real-life scenario is the best place to use the word 'try' when speaking?
A.You have already performed the routine perfectly every single time
B.You are learning to ride a bicycle for the first time
C.You decide to quit before beginning because you believe it is impossible
D.You are describing a guaranteed method that always works
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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