we decided to try

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we decided to try" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a collective decision to attempt something or explore an option. Example: "After much discussion, we decided to try a new approach to the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We decided to try".

The New York Times

"We decided to try something different".

The New York Times

We decided to try to reconstruct it".

The New Yorker

"We decided to try to save it".

The New Yorker

"We decided to try it".

The Guardian

We decided to try a nonbeach alternative.

The New York Times - Travel

We decided to try Northern Ireland instead.

The New York Times

So we decided to try buy One Direction!

Independent

"We decided to try to make it work," he said.

The New York Times

We decided to try something easier: a hexagonal nut.

The New York Times - Magazine

At a later dinner we decided to try again.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we decided to try", ensure the context clearly indicates who "we" refers to, particularly if the audience isn't already aware. This avoids ambiguity and enhances clarity.

Common error

While "we decided to try" is perfectly acceptable, overuse can make writing sound repetitive. Vary your sentence structure by using synonyms or rephrasing to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we decided to try" functions as a statement indicating a collective decision to undertake an action. It's used to express the intent to make an attempt, often implying a degree of uncertainty about the outcome, in line with Ludwig AI's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we decided to try" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a collective decision to attempt something, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It's frequently used in news and media contexts. While versatile, writers should aim for variety by considering alternatives like "we opted to attempt" or "we resolved to undertake", especially in more formal settings. Ensuring clarity regarding who "we" refers to is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we opted to attempt

Replaces "decided to try" with a more formal choice of words.

we agreed to attempt

Highlights the agreement among a group to try something.

we made the choice to attempt

Emphasizes the act of choosing before attempting.

we took the decision to try

Highlights that a decision was made before the attempt.

we determined to try

Implies a stronger resolve than "decided".

we resolved to undertake

Indicates a more determined approach than simply "trying".

we set out to try

Emphasizes the beginning of an attempt with purpose.

we concluded we should try

Suggests the decision was a result of reasoning.

we ventured to try

Indicates a willingness to take a risk or do something daring.

we thought we'd give it a shot

More informal, suggesting a less serious attempt.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "we decided to try"?

You can use alternatives like "we opted to attempt", "we resolved to undertake", or "we thought we'd give it a shot" depending on the context.

Is "we decided to try" formal or informal?

The phrase "we decided to try" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for more formal writing, consider using alternatives like "we opted to attempt".

How to use "we decided to try" in a sentence?

You can use "we decided to try" when expressing a collective decision to attempt something or explore an option. Example: After much discussion, "we decided to try" a new approach to the project.

What's the difference between "we decided to try" and "we tried"?

"We decided to try" emphasizes the decision-making process before the action, while "we tried" simply states that the action was performed. For example, "we decided to try a new restaurant" implies deliberation, whereas "we tried a new restaurant" only indicates the action of eating there.