is left trying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is left trying" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone is remaining in a state of effort or struggle after something has occurred. Example: "After the team failed to meet the deadline, she is left trying to salvage the project on her own."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

And one is left trying to understand regional changes without a global context.

The New York Times

The viewer is left trying to explain the unexplainable: Why is Kim Jong Il looking at these things?

The Washington Post

He is left trying to provide a gestural interpretation as Mr. Hutcheson recites the bulk of the text.

The New York Times

Cisco subsequently smuggles 11 raw chickens from a grocery store and is left trying to sell the salmonella-infested spoils to a homeless man.

The New York Times

He is left trying to disparage their plight (e.g. calling them terrorists, asserting that their claims of persecution are phony) or make ridiculous promises (e.g. close the border).

The Washington Post

Meanwhile, as Nigeria's Daily Trust reports, the government is left trying to pay down an outrageous debt owed to countries that can well afford to forgive it.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The authorities are left trying to soothe nerves.

The New York Times

The boys were left trying to start a campfire.

Independent

The children are left trying to put together the pieces.

The New York Times

So doctors are left trying drugs that suppress the immune system.

The New York Times - Sports

While the lawyers sort that out, the brokers are left trying to appease their clients.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is left trying", ensure the context clearly establishes what led to the person or entity being in that position. Clarity about the preceding events is crucial for understanding the present struggle.

Common error

Avoid using "is left trying" when the subject willingly chose to attempt something. This phrase implies a degree of abandonment or being forced into the situation, not a voluntary undertaking.

Linguistic Context

"Is left trying" functions as a verbal phrase within a clause, typically serving as part of the predicate. It describes an ongoing action or state of attempting something, often implying a lack of support or other resources. Ludwig provides examples demonstrating this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is left trying" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that describes a state of ongoing effort, often in the face of challenges or limited support. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is acceptable and appears frequently in news and media, as well as academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates what led to the situation. Alternatives like "remains attempting" or "is struggling to" can be used to add nuance. Avoid using the phrase if the subject willingly chose the attempt, as it implies a degree of abandonment. By following these guidelines, writers can effectively use "is left trying" to convey their intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is struggling to

This alternative emphasizes the difficulty and challenge involved in the attempt, highlighting the struggle.

remains attempting

This alternative uses 'remains' to emphasize the continuation of the effort, focusing on the persistence in trying.

is still endeavoring

Using 'endeavoring' adds a sense of formality and dedication to the act of trying, suitable for more serious contexts.

is committed to trying

Emphasizes the dedication and resolve in pursuing the attempt, focusing on the commitment.

is in the process of attempting

Emphasizes the ongoing nature of the attempt, highlighting that it is still in progress.

finds oneself attempting

This phrase highlights the unexpected or resultant nature of being in a state of trying, often after other options have failed.

is engaged in trying

This alternative underscores the active involvement and commitment to the act of trying.

is seeking to

Focuses on the intention and purpose behind the attempt, emphasizing the goal-oriented nature of the effort.

is occupied with attempting

Highlights the state of being busy or preoccupied with the effort of trying.

is working on

This phrase is a more general way of saying that someone is trying to achieve something, focusing on the action of working towards a goal.

FAQs

How can I use "is left trying" in a sentence?

Use "is left trying" to describe a situation where someone or something is in a state of attempting to resolve a problem or achieve a goal, often after other options have been exhausted or support has diminished. For example, "After the funding cuts, the department "is left trying" to maintain its services with fewer resources."

What are some alternatives to "is left trying"?

You can use alternatives like "remains attempting", "is struggling to", or "finds oneself attempting" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does "is left trying" imply about the situation?

"Is left trying" often implies that the situation is difficult, that other resources or support are no longer available, and that the subject is facing a significant challenge in their attempt. It suggests a degree of isolation or being compelled to act under adverse circumstances.

Is "is left trying" formal or informal language?

The phrase "is left trying" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. While it appears frequently in news and media /s/news+and+media, it's also appropriate for academic or professional writing where describing a challenging situation is necessary.