try to explain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try to explain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate an attempt to clarify or make something understandable. Example: "I will try to explain the concept in simpler terms so that everyone can understand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I'll try to explain".

The New Yorker

I try to explain.

The New York Times

Let me try to explain.

The New York Times

So let's try to explain.

The Guardian - Sport

"But he's — " I try to explain.

The New Yorker

"I try to explain feelings with metaphor.

The New York Times - Arts

Let me try to explain why.

The Guardian - Books

"But he's—" I try to explain.

The New Yorker

Jim and Kay try to explain their relative significance.

The New York Times

Could you try to explain your big idea?

The New York Times - Magazine

I try to explain this to people; nobody gets it.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "try to explain", ensure the context is appropriate for a non-expert audience. If the subject matter is technical, consider simplifying your language.

Common error

Avoid using overly technical jargon when you "try to explain" a concept to someone unfamiliar with the subject. Simplicity often enhances understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try to explain" functions as an infinitive phrase indicating an attempt or intention to clarify or provide understanding. It suggests a deliberate effort to make something comprehensible.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

18%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "try to explain" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating an attempt to clarify or provide understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical structure is correct and it fits seamlessly into various contexts. The phrase is particularly frequent in news and media, science and wiki sources. While seemingly simple, this expression introduces the possibility of a difficult explanation and shows awareness that the explanation may or may not be successful. Consider using alternatives like "attempt to elucidate" or "endeavor to clarify" based on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make an effort to explain

Substitutes "try" with the more explicit "make an effort", highlighting the exertion involved.

propose an explanation

Introduces the idea of suggesting a potential explanation, rather than a definitive one.

attempt to elucidate

Replaces "try" with the more formal "attempt" and "explain" with the more sophisticated "elucidate".

offer an interpretation

Presents the idea of providing one's understanding or perspective on a particular subject.

aim to explicate

Uses "aim" to emphasize intention and "explicate" for a thorough explanation.

endeavor to clarify

Uses "endeavor" to convey a more earnest or diligent effort to clarify something.

strive to clarify

Implies a persistent effort to make something easier to understand.

seek to illuminate

Employs "seek" and "illuminate" to suggest a quest to make something clearer or more understandable.

venture to interpret

Suggests a cautious or tentative attempt to explain something complex or ambiguous.

undertake to demonstrate

Implies a formal or methodical approach to explaining or proving something.

FAQs

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

You can use "try to explain" when you are attempting to clarify or make something understandable, for example: "I will "try to explain" the process in simpler terms."

What are some alternatives to "try to explain"?

Alternatives include "attempt to clarify", "endeavor to elucidate", or "aim to explicate", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

When is it appropriate to use "try to explain"?

"Try to explain" is suitable when you want to express an effort to clarify something that may be complex or difficult to understand. It's appropriate in many everyday and professional situations.

What's the difference between "try to explain" and "explain"?

"Try to explain" indicates an attempt or effort to clarify, whereas "explain" suggests a successful or complete clarification. Using "try" acknowledges the potential for difficulty or failure in the explanation.