try to obtain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try to obtain" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing an effort or attempt to acquire something. Example: "We will try to obtain the necessary permits before the project begins."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Therefore, always try to obtain short and simple inlet piping.

The Safety Relief Valve Handbook Design and Use of Process Safety Valves to ASME and International Codes and Standards

"I use them to try to obtain reference points.

The Guardian - Books

In these situations practitioners should try to obtain individual-level data.

Journal of Clinical Epidemiology

I've pursued people on three continents to try to obtain it, without success.

The Guardian - Opinion

At the sound of a starter pistol, the teams try to obtain possession.

The New York Times

It made me determined to try to obtain the same work conditions for British doctors.

The Guardian

Some owners of organic restaurants will not even try to obtain certification.

The New York Times - Food

He had apparently gone there to try to obtain a visa to defect to Cuba.

The Guardian

Like many TPS recipients, they say they will try to obtain legal residency.

The Washington Post

And more of them are starting to use their financial muscle to try to obtain it.

The New York Times

Often these people try to obtain relief from their unbearable pain by taking narcotic painkillers.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "try to obtain", ensure that the context clearly indicates the goal or object being pursued. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While acceptable in many situations, consistently using "try to obtain" in highly formal or academic writing can sound less sophisticated. Vary your phrasing with synonyms like "seek to acquire" or "endeavor to procure" to enhance the tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try to obtain" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose or intention. It indicates an effort or attempt to acquire or get something. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it is used to describe actions people or entities undertake to achieve a specific goal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "try to obtain" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves to express the intention of acquiring something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its common usage across various domains. While versatile, it's important to be mindful of context and formality, potentially substituting it with synonyms like "seek to acquire" in certain professional settings. This phrase is a reliable choice for conveying effort and intent in both writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make an effort to obtain

Directly states the exertion of effort in trying to get something.

try to get

A simpler and more informal version of the original phrase.

attempt to secure

Emphasizes a more formal and determined effort to gain something.

seek to acquire

Implies a more systematic and official approach to obtaining something.

seek to gain

Synonymous alternative with a slightly more formal tone.

aim to get

Suggests a goal-oriented approach with a focus on the outcome.

strive to gain

Highlights the effort and dedication involved in the process.

look to obtain

Shifts the focus to anticipation and planning in order to obtain something.

endeavor to procure

Indicates a more formal and possibly complex process of obtaining something.

work towards achieving

Focuses on the active steps taken to reach a specific goal.

FAQs

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

The phrase "try to obtain" is used to express an attempt to get or acquire something. For example, "We will "try to obtain" the necessary permits before starting the project."

What are some alternatives to "try to obtain"?

You can use alternatives like "attempt to secure", "seek to acquire", or "aim to get" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it grammatically correct to say "try and obtain" instead of "try to obtain"?

While "try and obtain" is sometimes used colloquially, "try to obtain" is generally considered more grammatically correct and appropriate in formal writing.

What is the difference between "try to obtain" and "succeed in obtaining"?

"Try to obtain" indicates an effort or attempt, while "succeed in obtaining" implies that the effort was successful and the goal was achieved. They represent different outcomes of the same process.