try to maintain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try to maintain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting an effort to keep a certain state or condition. Example: "During the meeting, we need to try to maintain a positive atmosphere to encourage open communication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Try to maintain your distance.

The New York Times

"You try to maintain fairness".

The New York Times

"I try to maintain lines of communication".

The New York Times

"I try to maintain," Wright said.

The New York Times - Sports

I try to maintain ethical standards.

The New York Times

"We just have to try to maintain a balance.

The New York Times - Sports

"But we have to try to maintain some unity".

The Guardian

You just try to maintain a positive outlook.

The New York Times - Sports

People say they try to maintain the status quo.

Independent

He will try to maintain his predecessor's independence.

The Economist

"Ranchers try to maintain their fences as best they can.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "try to maintain", ensure that the context clearly indicates what specific aspect or condition you are attempting to preserve or continue. For example, "try to maintain a positive attitude" is more effective than simply "try to maintain."

Common error

Avoid using "try to maintain" without a clear object or goal. Saying "they try to maintain" lacks clarity; instead, specify what they are trying to maintain, such as "they try to maintain their competitive edge."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try to maintain" functions as an infinitive phrase, typically acting as part of a verb phrase. It indicates an intention or effort to keep something in a particular state or condition. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its common usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

33%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "try to maintain" is a versatile and commonly used expression indicating an effort to preserve or continue something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It is particularly prevalent in News & Media and Wiki sources. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being maintained. Alternatives such as "attempt to preserve" or "strive to uphold" can add nuance. Understanding its proper context and avoiding vague applications will enhance your writing's precision and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attempt to preserve

Focuses more on the active effort of keeping something intact.

strive to uphold

Implies a strong dedication to maintaining a certain standard or principle.

seek to sustain

Emphasizes the continuation of something over a longer period.

endeavor to keep

A more formal way of saying "try to maintain", highlighting the effort involved.

make an effort to continue

Directly states the intention of continuing something.

aim to retain

Highlights the goal of keeping something that is already possessed.

work to conserve

Implies careful management and preservation of resources.

take steps to perpetuate

Focuses on ensuring the long-term continuation of something, often a tradition or idea.

do your best to preserve

Emphasizes giving your best effort in order to maintain something.

look to safeguard

Highlights protection from potential threats or harm, in order to maintain integrity.

FAQs

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

You can use "try to maintain" to suggest an effort to keep something in a certain state or condition. For example, "We must "try to maintain the amount of these limits" in the restoration process".

What are some alternatives to "try to maintain"?

Alternatives include phrases like "attempt to preserve", "strive to uphold", or "seek to sustain", each with slightly different nuances in meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "try to maintain"?

Yes, the phrase "try to maintain" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written and spoken English, as confirmed by Ludwig.

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

While both phrases are similar, "attempt to maintain" often implies a more formal or deliberate effort compared to the more general "try to maintain".