like to try

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like to try" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a desire or willingness to attempt something. Example: "I would like to try the new restaurant that just opened downtown."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But I'd like to try.

The New York Times

I'd certainly like to try.

The New Yorker

And I'd like to try that.

The New York Times

"I would like to try kayaking".

The New Yorker

We like to try it.

The Guardian - Sport

I would like to try.

The New York Times

OK?" "I'd like to try," I said.

The Guardian - Books

Would you like to try it?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Would you like to try again?

The New York Times - Arts

"I'd like to try writing something horrible.

The Guardian

"I like to try new things.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like to try" when expressing a general interest in attempting something new or different. This phrase is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

While acceptable, "like to try" can sound less formal. In professional or academic writing, consider stronger, more precise alternatives such as "intend to examine" or "aim to investigate" to add gravitas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like to try" functions as a verb phrase expressing intention or willingness to attempt or experience something. Ludwig AI examples show it used in diverse contexts, from expressing personal desires to discussing general preferences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

22%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like to try" is a common and generally correct way to express a desire or willingness to attempt something. As demonstrated by Ludwig AI, it appears frequently in news, media, and wiki contexts. While acceptable in most situations, more formal alternatives might be considered for academic or highly professional writing. It's important to note that while "like to try" indicates a general inclination, other phrases like "want to try" might imply a stronger desire.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

would be willing to attempt

Replaces "like" with a more formal expression of willingness.

wish to make an effort

Highlights the intention and work required.

intend to test out

Focuses on testing or evaluating something new.

am keen on experimenting with

Emphasizes enthusiasm and a willingness to experiment.

feel inclined to explore

Suggests a gentle curiosity and willingness to discover.

desire to give a shot

More informal and emphasizes a quick attempt.

am disposed to sample

Implies a trial or sampling of something.

am game to undertake

Informal and suggests readiness to take on a challenge.

have a yearning to experience

Implies a strong desire and personal experience.

fancy having a go at

British English expression for attempting something.

FAQs

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

You can use "like to try" to express a desire to attempt something new. For example, "I "would like to try" that new restaurant" or "They "like to try" different cuisines when they travel".

What are some alternatives to "like to try"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "would be willing to attempt", "intend to test out", or "am inclined to explore".

Is "like to try" formal or informal?

"Like to try" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, consider using more precise and sophisticated alternatives.

What's the difference between "like to try" and "want to try"?

While both express a desire to attempt something, "like to try" can sometimes imply a slightly weaker or more casual intention compared to "want to try", which expresses a stronger desire.