try to find an answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try to find an answer" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used when someone is attempting to solve a problem or figure something out. Here is an example of how it could be used in a sentence: "After hours of research, I still couldn't solve the math problem. I decided to try to find an answer by asking my teacher for help."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Email [email protected] and we'll try to find an answer.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

To try to find an answer, let's continue with the penguin.

The Guardian - Opinion

A geriatrician will try to find an answer to the problem.

The New York Times - Health

It was to try to find an answer to a gnawing question: What makes people give their money away?

The New York Times - Magazine

You take all these clues and try to find an answer you can articulate that's useful to everyday life.

The Guardian

Today was a lost opportunity to try to find an answer to the biggest questions this country has faced since the second world war.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

"I'm still trying to find an answer to that.

The Guardian - Sport

Volvo Cars is trying to find an answer.

The New York Times

But I hope to devote myself to trying to find an answer.

The New York Times

As a result, as Lindros pointed out: "We've been mixing up lines trying to find an answer.

The New York Times - Sports

"I am trying to find an answer but I can't," said Arid's father, Murat Uka, asking a reporter whether the dead men had families, of what age.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "try to find an answer", ensure that the context clearly indicates the problem or question you are attempting to address. Provide enough information for the reader to understand the scope of your search.

Common error

While "try to find an answer" is acceptable, overuse can make your writing sound repetitive. In formal contexts, consider using more sophisticated alternatives like "endeavor to determine" or "seek a resolution" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try to find an answer" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It indicates an action (trying) undertaken with the intention of achieving a specific goal (finding an answer). As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

23%

Lifestyle

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "try to find an answer" is a common and grammatically sound way to express the intent to resolve a question or problem. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely accepted in written English. Its neutral register makes it suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news, scientific discussions and lifestyle content. While versatile, be mindful of potential overuse, especially in formal writing, where alternatives like "endeavor to determine" might be more appropriate. The goal is to clearly communicate your effort to seek an understanding or resolution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attempt to answer

Emphasizes the attempt to respond or solve something.

seek a response

Focuses on the act of looking for a reaction or reply.

look for a resolution

Highlights the search for a way to settle a problem.

search for a solution

Emphasizes the act of looking for a method to solve a problem.

endeavor to resolve

Implies a determined effort to settle or find a solution.

strive to understand

Focuses on making an effort to comprehend something.

aim to clarify

Highlights the goal of making something clearer or easier to understand.

work towards a solution

Suggests a sustained effort to achieve a resolution.

explore possible answers

Focuses on investigating different potential solutions.

investigate to solve

Highlights the act of examining something in order to find a resolution.

FAQs

How can I use "try to find an answer" in a sentence?

You can use "try to find an answer" to describe the process of seeking a solution or explanation. For example: "Researchers are working diligently to try to find an answer to this complex scientific question."

What are some alternatives to "try to find an answer"?

You can use alternatives like "attempt to answer", "seek a response", or "search for a solution" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "try to find an answer" or "attempt to find an answer"?

Both "try to find an answer" and "attempt to find an answer" are grammatically correct. The choice depends on the desired level of formality; "attempt" often sounds more formal than "try".

What's the difference between "try to find an answer" and "find an answer"?

"Try to find an answer" implies an effort is being made, while "find an answer" suggests that the answer has already been discovered or is readily available.