trying

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "trying" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an adjective used to describe an attempt to achieve something. Example sentence: I'm trying my best to pass the test.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm trying to do the right thing".

The New York Times

Because Republicans are trying, for the third time since he took office, to use economic blackmail to achieve a goal they lack the votes to achieve through the normal legislative process.

The New York Times

He added: "I was of the view he was trying to protect me".

The Guardian

(And note that they are trying to produce riveting, dramatic television coverage, after all).

The Guardian

As soon as the journalists were able to work, everything that I had been trying to do was validated.

The Guardian

The same is true of refinancing at a different bank from the one that currently holds your mortgage, or trying to persuade a new bank to give you a business loan.

The Economist

He made such a goofy production of trying to light the fuses hanging off his shoe that he practically asked the flight attendant if she had a match.

The Economist

But it will not be for lack of trying.

The Economist

What is he trying to communicate to the world?

The Economist

For me, it was while trying to pre-board an overcrowded flight to Miami with a noisy baby in my arms, only to be ordered back in line by a curt agent.

The Economist

(Saying that, if you had that face and figure you'd look good in a bin-liner. I'm now trying to remember if she ever wore a bin-liner).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "trying", ensure the context clearly indicates the goal or objective being pursued. For example, instead of just saying "I'm trying", specify "I'm trying to improve my writing skills."

Common error

Avoid using "trying" vaguely. Instead of saying "I'm trying to be better", specify what "better" means in that context, such as "I'm trying to be more organized" or "I'm trying to be more patient".

Linguistic Context

The word "trying" primarily functions as a verb, specifically as the present participle of "try." It describes an ongoing action or process of attempting something. According to Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically correct and widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "trying" is a versatile and frequently used verb form that primarily expresses the act of making an attempt or effort. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using "trying", ensure to specify the goal to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "attempting" or "endeavoring" for more formal settings. With its wide applicability, "trying" remains a fundamental term in everyday language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attempting

Similar in meaning, but often used in more formal contexts.

endeavoring

A more formal and less common synonym for "trying", suggesting a serious or determined effort.

seeking

Implies an active search or pursuit towards a specific goal.

striving

Suggests a persistent and forceful effort, often against resistance.

aiming

Indicates directing one's efforts or intentions toward a particular target or objective.

making an effort

More descriptive and less direct than "trying", emphasizing the exertion of effort.

working towards

Highlights the ongoing process and direction of the effort.

giving it a shot

Informal expression suggesting a willingness to attempt something, often with uncertain prospects.

taking a stab at

Implies an initial or tentative attempt, often at something challenging.

having a go

A colloquial expression, common in British English, indicating an attempt or try.

FAQs

How can I use "trying" in a sentence?

You can use "trying" to express an attempt or effort to do something, such as "I am "trying to learn" a new language" or "She is "trying her best" to succeed".

What can I say instead of "trying"?

You can use alternatives like "attempting", "endeavoring", or "striving" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "trying to" or "trying and"?

"Trying to" is generally the correct and more common form when expressing an attempt or effort to do something. "Trying and" might be used in specific, less common contexts, but "trying to" is usually preferred.

What's the difference between "trying" and "attempting"?

"Trying" is a more general and common term, while "attempting" is often used in more formal or serious contexts. Both indicate an effort to achieve something, but "attempting" can suggest a more deliberate or planned effort.