try flying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try flying" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting someone attempt to fly, either literally or metaphorically, such as trying out an activity or experience. Example: "If you're feeling adventurous, why not try flying in a hot air balloon this weekend?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

He decided to try flying a model plane in the open fields.

The New Yorker

A man let me try flying the virtual drone on his terminal.

The New Yorker

"Try flying, or even entering a tall building such as the courthouse in which we sit".

The New York Times

She followed her father's advice to try flying, but the air force recruiting office near her home was closed for lunch.

The Economist

Or, if your travel dates are flexible, try flying at "off" times like Christmas Day, New Year's Eve or New Year's Day.

The New York Times - Travel

"I figured we might try flying passengers in the eight or nine hours of downtime we had before we had to fly the gamblers back".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

Six weeks ago he tried flying home.

The Guardian - Opinion

A couple of years ago he tried flying economy, but decided he wouldn't repeat the attempt.

The Guardian

At Temple Square last week, Mr. Walters said, the young male falcon tried flying before his sister, but navigating Salt Lake City proved difficult.

The New York Times

Mr. Held, for example, tried flying huge kites shaped like eagles, hoping to scare the geese away.

The New York Times

I'm in Norham, on the river Tweed, and about to try fly-fishing.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "try flying" in a metaphorical sense, ensure the context clearly indicates the activity or experience being likened to flight, such as "try flying solo in your business venture".

Common error

Avoid using "try flying" in contexts where the connection to flight is unclear or confusing. For example, saying "try flying through this report" might not effectively convey the intended meaning of quickly reviewing it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try flying" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "try" is the main verb and "flying" is a gerund acting as the direct object. It expresses the act of attempting or suggesting the act of attempting the experience of flight. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Academia

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "try flying" is a grammatically correct and versatile verb phrase used to suggest or encourage the act of attempting to fly, whether literally or metaphorically. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Its frequency is common, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, its appropriateness depends on the specific context. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly conveys the intended meaning, especially in metaphorical usages. Alternatives such as "attempt to fly" or "give flying a shot" may be more suitable depending on the desired tone and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attempt to fly

Formal alternative, emphasizing the effort or attempt to achieve flight.

give flying a shot

Informal alternative suggesting an attempt or experiment with flying.

experience flight

Focuses on the sensory or emotional aspect of being in flight.

venture into aviation

Suggests a more involved or committed entry into the world of flying.

take to the skies

Figurative expression implying beginning a journey or endeavor related to flight.

explore aerial navigation

Focuses on the aspect of navigating through the air, often in a technical context.

test your wings

Metaphorical phrase indicating an attempt to gain experience or prove ability in flight.

learn to pilot

Focuses on acquiring the skills to control an aircraft.

get airborne

Simple way of saying to lift off and start flying.

try soaring

Suggests a graceful, gliding type of flight.

FAQs

How can I use "try flying" in a sentence?

You can use "try flying" to suggest someone attempts to fly, either literally, as in "Why don't you "try flying" a kite?", or metaphorically, as in "Try flying under the radar to avoid attention".

What are some alternatives to "try flying"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "attempt to fly", "give flying a shot", or "experience flight".

Is it correct to say "try to flying" instead of "try flying"?

No, "try to flying" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is ""try flying"", where "flying" acts as a gerund (a verb form functioning as a noun).

When is it appropriate to use "try flying" metaphorically?

It's appropriate to use ""try flying"" metaphorically when you want to suggest attempting something new or challenging, drawing on the idea of freedom and exploration associated with flight, for example "try flying" solo in your business project.