we should try

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we should try" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to express a sentiment of determination, or to suggest that one or more people should attempt something. For example: "We should try our best to make the most of this situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We should try that.

The New York Times

We should try this, too.

The New York Times

We should try it sometime.

Harvard Business Review

We should try to do the same.

The New Yorker

"Well, we should try more water".

The New York Times

"We should try this more often".

The New York Times

The answer: no, but we should try.

The New York Times - Arts

Rather we should try to optimise several.

The Guardian

We should try to change this.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We should try inflexibly to help him".

The New Yorker

I think we should try that".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we should try", ensure the context clearly indicates what action is being suggested. Providing specific details enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

While "we should try" is versatile, avoid overuse in formal documents. Opt for stronger, more direct phrasing like "we recommend" or "it is essential to consider" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we should try" functions primarily as a modal verb phrase expressing a suggestion or recommendation. It indicates a course of action that is advisable or worth attempting. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we should try" is a common and versatile phrase used to suggest a course of action or recommend an attempt. According to Ludwig, this modal verb phrase functions to propose solutions and encourage experimentation across various contexts. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for both formal and informal settings, though alternatives might be preferred for strictly formal writing. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct. The frequent use of "we should try" in news and media sources highlights its role in discussing potential strategies and approaches. Understanding these nuances allows for effective and contextually appropriate use of the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we ought to attempt

Replaces "should" with "ought to" and "try" with "attempt", creating a slightly more formal tone.

we have to try

Replaces "should" with "have to", indicating necessity or obligation to attempt.

we need to attempt

Substitutes "should" with "need to" and "try" with "attempt", highlighting the requirement to attempt something.

we could attempt

Substitutes "should" with "could", indicating a possibility rather than a recommendation.

why don't we try

Phrases the suggestion as a question.

we might try

Uses "might" instead of "should", suggesting a weaker possibility or suggestion.

it would be good to try

Changes the sentence structure to emphasize the positive outcome of trying.

let's give it a shot

Offers a more informal, colloquial alternative to "we should try".

we would better try

Replaces "should" with "would better", giving an advice.

it's worth a try

Shifts the focus to the value of attempting something, rather than directly suggesting it.

FAQs

How can I use "we should try" in a sentence?

Use "we should try" to suggest an action or experiment, like "We should try a new approach to solve this problem".

What are some alternatives to "we should try"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "we ought to attempt", "we could attempt", or "let's give it a shot".

Is it better to say "we should try" or "we must try"?

"We should try" suggests a recommendation, while "we must try" indicates a necessity. The better choice depends on whether the action is advisable or required.

What's the difference between "we should try" and "we will try"?

"We should try" expresses a suggestion or intention, while "we will try" expresses a firm commitment to attempt something. "We will try" indicates a stronger level of determination.