try to have

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try to have" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it in a sentence to indicate an effort to acquire or obtain something. For example: "I'm trying to have the final paperwork finished by tomorrow morning."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I try to have a conversation.

The New Yorker

"I try to have 13, maximum".

The New York Times

I try to have fun".

Forbes

Try to have compassion.

WikiHow

Try to have patience.

WikiHow

Try to have fun.

WikiHow

Try to have a boyfriend.

WikiHow

Try to have good thoughts.

WikiHow

Always try to have fun.

WikiHow

Try to have self confidence.

WikiHow

Try to have everything organized.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "try to have" in your writing, ensure it is followed by a concrete noun or a clear objective. This makes your intention clear and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "try to have" when a more direct verb would be clearer and more concise. Instead of saying "try to have an understanding", consider saying "try to understand".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try to have" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase, indicating an intention or attempt to experience or obtain something. Ludwig's examples shows it expressing attempts at conversations, fun, or even patience.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

86%

News & Media

12%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "try to have" is a grammatically sound and very common expression used to indicate an effort to acquire, experience, or achieve something. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in WikiHow and News & Media contexts, it maintains a neutral to informal register. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what one is trying to have, whether it's a conversation, fun, or a specific quality like patience. While alternatives exist, such as "attempt to acquire" or "seek to gain", "try to have" remains a straightforward and versatile option.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

try to acquire

Direct synonym focusing on the act of getting something.

make an attempt to obtain

Highlights the active attempt to acquire or secure something.

attempt to experience

Focuses on seeking out a particular sensation or event.

seek to gain

Focuses on the attempt to acquire or obtain something, often implying a deliberate search.

aim to possess

Focuses on the intention to own something, shifting from effort to objective.

make an effort to secure

Highlights the active attempt to obtain or ensure something.

strive to attain

Emphasizes the effort made to achieve or gain something.

endeavor to acquire

Stresses the serious and determined attempt to obtain something.

aspire to hold

Emphasizes the ambition and desire to possess something.

work towards achieving

Highlights the continuous effort and progress towards a specific goal.

FAQs

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

You can use "try to have" to indicate an effort to acquire something, like "I "try to have a conversation"", or to experience something, such as "try to have fun".

What are some alternatives to "try to have"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "attempt to acquire", "seek to gain", or "strive to attain".

Is it more correct to say "try to have" or "try and have"?

"Try to have" is generally considered more grammatically correct in formal writing. "Try and have" is acceptable in informal contexts, but "try to have" is usually preferred for clarity and precision.

What's the difference between "try to have" and "attempt to have"?

"Try to have" and "attempt to have" are quite similar, but "attempt to have" often implies a more deliberate or formal effort. "Try to have" can be used more casually.