trying to become

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "trying to become" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing an effort or aspiration to achieve a certain state or identity. Example: "She is trying to become a better version of herself through self-improvement and education."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are trying to become information providers.

The Economist

Stop trying to become Facebook.

The Washington Post

I'm trying to become one.

The New York Times - Sports

Now he's trying to become a doctor".

The New Yorker

I'm trying to become a fashion designer".

The Guardian

Are you trying to become a personality?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We were trying to become men.

The New Yorker

He is trying to become a hero.

The Guardian - Books

Grant was trying to become Mr Universe.

The Guardian - Sport

He is not trying to become popular.

The New York Times

How is it that you're trying to become happier?

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "trying to become" when you want to express an ongoing effort or process of transformation, rather than a completed achievement.

Common error

In formal contexts, consider using more precise alternatives such as "endeavoring to be" or "striving to achieve" to avoid sounding too colloquial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "trying to become" functions as a verbal phrase, specifically a gerund phrase. It typically acts as part of a verb phrase, indicating an ongoing effort or attempt to achieve a specific state or identity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "trying to become" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe an ongoing effort or process of transformation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in tone, more formal alternatives like "endeavoring to be" might be preferable in certain professional settings. Keep in mind that "trying to become" emphasizes the effort involved, distinguishing it from the more conclusive state implied by "becoming".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attempting to be

A straightforward alternative, emphasizing the act of making an attempt.

working towards becoming

Highlights the process and ongoing effort involved in the transformation.

striving to be

Focuses on the effort and dedication involved in achieving a certain state.

seeking to become

Suggests a more active and purposeful pursuit of a new state.

endeavoring to be

A more formal and earnest way of expressing the attempt to reach a desired state.

aspiring to be

Emphasizes ambition and a strong desire to reach a higher level or state.

making an effort to become

Explicitly states the exertion of effort in pursuing a new state.

aiming to be

Highlights the intention and goal-oriented nature of the effort.

in the process of becoming

Focuses on the ongoing nature of the transformation.

on the way to becoming

Suggests progress and advancement towards a future state.

FAQs

How can I use "trying to become" in a sentence?

You can use "trying to become" to describe an ongoing effort to transform into something else. For example, "She is trying to become a doctor" or "The company is trying to become more sustainable".

What are some alternatives to "trying to become"?

Alternatives include "attempting to be", "striving to be", or "aiming to be". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is it always appropriate to use "trying to become" in professional communication?

While generally acceptable, "trying to become" can sometimes sound less formal. Consider alternatives like "endeavoring to be" or "working towards being" in more formal settings.

What's the difference between "trying to become" and "becoming"?

"Trying to become" indicates an ongoing effort or process, whereas "becoming" suggests a more definitive transition or change that is already in progress or near completion.