try to achieve something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try to achieve something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing an effort or attempt to reach a specific goal or outcome. Example: "In this project, we will try to achieve something meaningful that can benefit the community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"Sometimes you do weird things to try to achieve something.

The New York Times

"This game is like catch because we're working collaboratively together to try to achieve something".

The New York Times - Tech

I am convinced of that but obviously it is one of the toughest places in the world to come and try to achieve something like this".

The Guardian - Sport

If we can survive, and then get better and more exciting players in and try to achieve something, that support will keep growing".

The Guardian - Sport

I got a class full of badly behaved boys to settle down and actually try to achieve something; they now want to learn, something they scorned a year ago.

The Guardian - Opinion

"When you are working with an organised team to try to achieve something positive for the party and for David Cameron it is inevitable that all sorts of rumours leak out.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

It's not about trying to achieve something".

The Guardian

How about trying to achieve something similar for electronic data?

The New York Times - Science

I'm sick of trying to achieve something".

The Guardian - Books

"We tried to achieve something realistic -- a bourgeois, yet modern look," Mr. Simons said.

The New York Times

"Always, if you are trying to achieve something, you will reach your goal," Ms. Akbari said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "try to achieve something", ensure the context clearly defines the 'something' you are trying to achieve. Specificity adds clarity and purpose to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "try to achieve something" in every instance where effort is involved. Vary your language with alternatives like "strive for", "work towards", or "pursue" to maintain reader engagement and precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try to achieve something" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable. It indicates an intention or attempt to reach a specific goal. Examples from the search data demonstrate its use in various contexts, from sports to personal development.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "try to achieve something" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase to express the intent to reach a specific goal. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. While versatile, ensure the 'something' is clearly defined for clarity. Consider alternatives like "strive to accomplish" or "aim to achieve" for variety. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media sources and maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for a broad audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strive to accomplish something

Replaces "try" with "strive", indicating a more determined effort, and "achieve" with "accomplish", focusing on the completion of a task.

aim to accomplish something

"Aim" implies having a clear target or objective in mind.

attempt to attain something

"Attempt" is a more formal synonym for "try", while "attain" emphasizes reaching a specific level or goal.

seek to realize something

"Seek" suggests a more deliberate pursuit, and "realize" focuses on making something concrete or tangible.

make an effort to achieve something

More explicitly states the exertion of effort in pursuing a goal.

endeavor to obtain something

"Endeavor" indicates a serious and sustained effort, and "obtain" emphasizes acquiring or gaining something.

aspire to reach something

"Aspire" suggests a strong desire and ambition, while "reach" focuses on attaining a specific destination.

work towards achieving something

Focuses on the ongoing process of effort and progress toward a goal.

take steps to achieve something

Emphasizes the actions and specific measures taken to reach a goal.

pursue a goal

Focuses on the ongoing active chase of a specific target.

FAQs

What does "try to achieve something" mean?

The phrase "try to achieve something" means to make an effort or attempt to reach a particular goal or outcome. It implies an active endeavor with the intent of success.

How can I use "try to achieve something" in a sentence?

You can use "try to achieve something" in a sentence by placing it in a context where someone is making an effort to accomplish a particular aim. For example, "In this project, we will "try to achieve something" meaningful that can benefit the community."

What can I say instead of "try to achieve something"?

You can use alternatives like "strive to accomplish something", "attempt to attain something", or "aim to accomplish something" depending on the context.

Is "try and achieve something" grammatically correct?

While "try and" is sometimes used colloquially, "try to" is generally considered more grammatically correct in formal writing. It's better to use "try to achieve something" rather than "try and achieve something".