he is trying

USAGE SUMMARY

"he is trying" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to someone's efforts to do something. For example, "John is trying to finish his essay before the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

He is trying again.

The New York Times - Tech

But he is trying.

The New York Times

He is trying to quit.

The Economist

He is trying.

The Guardian - Music

He is trying to address their concerns".

The New York Times

He is trying hard to be irrational.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

He is tried.

The New Yorker

He is tried, convicted, and interrogated.

The New Yorker

He's trying.

The New York Times

"But he was trying?

The New Yorker

"He was trying to survive".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "he is trying" to clearly indicate someone's current effort towards a goal. This phrase is versatile and appropriate for various contexts, from informal conversations to formal writing.

Common error

Avoid switching to the past tense mid-sentence after using "he is trying". For example, instead of saying "He is trying to learn, but he failed", say "He is trying to learn, but he finds it difficult" or "He tried to learn, but he failed".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is trying" functions as a verb phrase indicating an ongoing action or attempt by someone to achieve a specific goal. It showcases an effort being made in the present moment, aligning with Ludwig's affirmation of its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "he is trying" is a grammatically sound and very common expression used to describe someone's current effort. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure tense consistency and consider alternatives like "he is attempting" or "he is endeavoring" for nuanced expression. Understanding the difference between "he is trying" and "he tries" or "he was trying" will enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he is making an effort

Emphasizes the exertion of effort rather than the potential outcome.

he is aiming to

Focuses on the direction or goal of the effort.

he is endeavoring

Replaces "trying" with a more formal synonym, suggesting a serious and determined effort.

he is undertaking

Suggests a formal or significant project or endeavor.

he is working on it

Implies progress and ongoing effort, rather than just the act of trying.

he is seeking to

More formal, suggesting a deliberate and focused attempt to achieve a specific goal.

he is in the process of

Highlights the action being in progress.

he is giving it a shot

More informal, suggesting a casual attempt with uncertain prospects.

he is tackling

Suggests an approach to a difficult task or problem.

he is having a go

British English equivalent of "giving it a shot", indicating an attempt or turn.

FAQs

How to use "he is trying" in a sentence?

"He is trying" is used to describe someone's current attempt to do something. For example, "He is trying to improve his grades", or "He is trying to fix the car".

What can I say instead of "he is trying"?

You can use alternatives like "he is attempting", "he is endeavoring", or "he is making an effort" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "he is trying" or "he tries"?

"He is trying" indicates a current, ongoing effort, while "he tries" describes a habitual or repeated action. For example, "He is trying to quit smoking" (right now) versus "He tries to help others whenever he can" (general habit).

What's the difference between "he is trying" and "he was trying"?

"He is trying" refers to a present action, while "he was trying" refers to an action in the past. For example, "He is trying to call you now" (present) versus "He was trying to reach you earlier" (past).