I tried to protect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I tried to protect" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing an effort made to safeguard someone or something from harm or danger. Example: "I tried to protect my friend from making a bad decision by offering my advice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

I tried to protect you!

The New Yorker

I tried to protect the writers I worked with.

The New York Times - Magazine

I tried to protect myself but I received six hits.

The Guardian

"I tried to protect myself with my arms, but they hit me in the head".

The New York Times

"I tried to protect myself by saying the nutcracker was a two-part play," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Rather than just come clean and blow the whistle, I tried to protect what I had.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

I try to protect my fasting because it really means a lot to me".

The New York Times - Sports

"I try to protect people," Mr. McQueen once remarked of his designs.

The New York Times

"I try to protect the car, watch the car," Mr. Tahiraj said.

The New York Times

"In no way was I trying to protect his career over the safety of Ms Sorrell".

The Guardian

I try to protect my child as much as I can but they've stopped asking for things like deodorant, to try to help out, I would guess.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "I tried to protect", ensure that the object of your protection is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify what or whom you were trying to protect.

Common error

Avoid simply stating "I tried to protect" without providing context or specific actions taken. Describe what steps you undertook in your attempt to offer a more impactful narrative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I tried to protect" functions as a declarative statement. Ludwig AI indicates that it expresses an attempt to shield or defend someone or something. It sets the stage for describing an action taken with the intention of safeguarding.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I tried to protect" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey an effort to safeguard something or someone. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, detailing the specific actions taken during your attempt can add greater impact to your writing. Be sure to clearly define the object of your protection to enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I attempted to shield

Focuses on shielding as a means of providing protection, often implying a physical barrier.

I sought to defend

Emphasizes active defense against an attack or threat.

I endeavored to safeguard

Highlights the effort made to ensure the safety and security of something.

I aimed to preserve

Focuses on maintaining the current state and preventing damage or loss.

I made an effort to guard

Highlights the conscious effort put into protecting something from harm.

I took steps to secure

Indicates that specific actions were taken to make something safe and protected.

I worked to insulate

Suggests an attempt to isolate something from negative influences or harm.

I strived to preserve

Emphasizes continuous effort to keep something safe and undamaged.

I looked after to keep safe

Highlights on caring and watching closely over something or someone in order to maintain its safety.

I tried to watch over

Focuses on the act of constantly monitoring to ensure safety and prevent danger.

FAQs

What does it mean to say "I tried to protect"?

Saying "I tried to protect" means that you made an effort to keep someone or something safe from harm, danger, or damage. The outcome of your effort is not specified; it only indicates the attempt.

What can I say instead of "I tried to protect"?

You can use alternatives like "I attempted to shield", "I sought to defend", or "I endeavored to safeguard" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I tried protecting"?

While grammatically valid, "I tried protecting" implies you experimented with the act of protecting, whereas "I tried to protect" suggests a specific attempt to safeguard something. The latter is generally more common and direct.

How can I make my writing more impactful when using "I tried to protect"?

Instead of stating only that you "I tried to protect", detail the specific actions you took and the challenges you faced. This provides context and makes your statement more compelling for the reader.