try to build something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try to build something" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when encouraging someone to attempt creating or developing an idea, project, or physical object. Example: "In this workshop, we will try to build something innovative that addresses environmental issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"We got to continue to try to build something special".

The New York Times - Sports

So we try to build something for the future, for Novak and for Serbia".

The New York Times - Sports

"You just take it an at-bat at a time and try to build something.

The New York Times - Sports

They both know they care enough to try to build something out of whatever tenuous or primal link connects them.

The New York Times

But Beckerman cleans up as Portland try to build something and RSL work the ball forward in an easy rhythm.

The Guardian - Sport

When I asked Nimmich if he was impressed by their craftsmanship, he arched a brow and said: "You ever try to build something in your backyard?

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

I am just done trying to build something that is not building fast enough.

The New York Times

We're trying to build something good".

The New York Times - Sports

"Coach is trying to build something here.

The New York Times - Sports

We're trying to build something special here.

The Guardian - Sport

In New York City, a group of Muslims is trying to build something.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "try to build something" when you want to convey a sense of effort and intention towards creating something new or improving an existing entity. It works well in contexts where innovation or progress is emphasized.

Common error

While "try to build something" is acceptable, ensure that the "something" is eventually defined or made more specific to provide clarity and direction to the effort. Overusing vague terms can lead to ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try to build something" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose or intent. It indicates an effort or attempt to create or construct something, whether tangible or intangible. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples from diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "try to build something" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express the intention to create or develop something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news, business, and general contexts. To enhance clarity, be specific about what "something" refers to. For alternatives, consider phrases like "attempt to create something" or "aim to develop something", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attempt to create something

Replaces "build" with "create", focusing on the act of bringing something into existence.

aim to develop something

Substitutes "try" with "aim" and "build" with "develop", suggesting a more focused and strategic effort.

work on developing something

Highlights the ongoing effort and progress in creating something.

seek to establish something

Emphasizes the intention to firmly set up or bring something into being.

undertake to form something

Implies a commitment to the task of bringing something into existence.

strive to construct something

Replaces "try" with "strive" and "build" with "construct", implying a more strenuous and deliberate effort.

set out to craft something

Highlights the skill and care involved in creating something.

endeavor to assemble something

Focuses on the process of putting parts together to form a whole.

make an effort to erect something

Suggests a deliberate attempt to set up or establish something, often something tangible.

take steps to shape something

Emphasizes the process of molding or influencing something into a desired form.

FAQs

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

You can use "try to build something" to express an attempt to create or develop an idea, a project, or a physical object. For example, "We "try to build something" special for each client."

What are some alternatives to "try to build something"?

You can use alternatives like "attempt to create something", "aim to develop something", or "work on developing something" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "try to build something" or "attempt to build something"?

Both "try to build something" and "attempt to build something" are grammatically correct. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey. "Try" suggests a general effort, while "attempt" can imply a more deliberate or challenging undertaking.

What's the difference between "try to build something" and "try to achieve something"?

"Try to build something" implies creating or developing something tangible or intangible, whereas "try to achieve something" focuses on attaining a specific goal or outcome.