continuing to try

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "continuing to try" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to efforts that are currently in progress, or to refer to actions that are repeated in an effort to succeed. For example: "Despite all their hard work, they haven't achieved their goals yet, but they're continuing to try."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

government cannot be walled out: continuing to try to exclude them from power is a recipe for continued violence.

Huffington Post

There was no harm in Rourke's continuing to try.

The New Yorker

It's about getting up every day and continuing to try".

The New York Times

"We are continuing to try to bring the truth forward".

The New York Times - Sports

"Officers are continuing to try and identify anyone involved in the assault.

Independent

But small employers are continuing to try to keep cost down in other ways.

The New York Times

I can tell you every day we are continuing to try".

The New York Times

It's the Taliban continuing to try and take district centres," he said.

The Guardian

Engineers were continuing to try to get the blowout preventer to activate fully, which would shut off the flow.

The New York Times - Science

While Cornell experts concede that they are frustrated, they are continuing to try to renew the scallop population.

The New York Times - Food

"Well, there is no question that evildoers are continuing to try to harm America and Americans," Mr. Bush said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "continuing to try" when you want to emphasize the ongoing nature of an effort, especially when facing challenges or setbacks. It conveys persistence and determination.

Common error

Be mindful of using "continuing to try" with verbs or phrases that already imply continuation. For example, avoid saying "continuing to keep continuing to try" as it is unnecessarily repetitive. Keep the language concise and direct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "continuing to try" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as a verbal noun within a sentence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it signifies an ongoing effort or persistent action. It often modifies verbs or entire clauses to emphasize the sustained nature of the attempt.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "continuing to try" is a grammatically sound and frequently used gerund phrase that signifies persistent effort and determination. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, primarily appearing in news and media sources. When using the phrase, be mindful of avoiding redundancy and consider alternative phrases like "persist in trying" for a more formal tone or "keep trying" for simplicity. The phrase's communicative purpose is to emphasize ongoing efforts despite challenges, making it a versatile and valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

keep trying

A simpler, more direct way of expressing ongoing effort.

continue attempting

Uses a more formal synonym for "try", suggesting a deliberate effort.

persist in trying

Emphasizes the determination to overcome obstacles while trying.

persevere in the attempt

Highlights the steadfastness and resilience of the effort.

keep at it

An idiomatic expression indicating persistent effort, often in a casual context.

remain committed to trying

Highlights the dedication and resolve behind the effort.

not give up

Focuses on the avoidance of cessation, implying resilience and determination.

pursue relentlessly

Conveys a strong sense of determination and unwavering pursuit.

endeavor ceaselessly

Uses more formal language to emphasize continuous and tireless effort.

stay the course

An idiomatic expression suggesting perseverance and commitment to a long-term goal.

FAQs

How can I use "continuing to try" in a sentence?

You can use "continuing to try" to describe ongoing efforts, as in "Despite the difficulties, they are "continuing to try" to find a solution."

What's a more formal alternative to "continuing to try"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "continue attempting" or "persist in trying", which convey a similar meaning but with increased formality.

Is it better to say "continue to try" or "continuing to try"?

Both "continue to try" and "continuing to try" are grammatically correct and convey similar meanings. "Continue to try" uses the infinitive form, while "continuing to try" uses the gerund form. The choice often depends on the specific sentence structure and desired emphasis. "Continue to try" is equally valid.

What does "continuing to try" imply?

"Continuing to try" implies persistence, determination, and an ongoing effort despite potential setbacks or challenges. It suggests that the effort has not ceased and is still in progress. As an alternative, consider the verb "persevere".