Try

Definition

Try is a verb meaning to make an attempt or effort to do something. As a noun, it refers to an act of attempting or an effort to achieve a specific goal.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /traɪ/
• Respelling: TRY

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /traɪ/
• Respelling: TRY

Etymology

The word "try" originates from Old French "trier," meaning "to sift or separate," derived from Medieval Latin "tritare," meaning "to rub" or "to grind." It entered Middle English in the 14th century with meanings related to testing or making an effort.

Derivatives

• Trying (adjective/verb)
• Tried (verb, past tense)
• Tryout (noun)
• Retry (verb)
• Triable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Attempt
• Strive
• Endeavor

Antonyms

• Quit
• Abandon
• Surrender

Usage

The verb "try" is used to describe efforts, as in "I will try to finish the project by tomorrow." The noun "try" describes an attempt, as in "That was a good try, but it didn’t work."

Related Terms

• Attempt: A synonym of "try," meaning to make an effort.
• Test: An evaluation or trial to assess something.
• Effort: The exertion of physical or mental energy toward a goal.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To make an effort to accomplish something: Refers to attempting a task or action.
  • Example: "He tried to climb the mountain but couldn’t reach the top."
• To test or examine something: Refers to evaluating or experimenting with something.
  • Example: "She tried the new recipe for dinner."
• To subject to trial in a legal context: Refers to bringing someone before a court to examine a case.
  • Example: "The case will be tried in a court of law."

Noun

• An act of making an effort: Refers to an attempt to achieve something.
  • Example: "Give it a try; you might succeed."
• An effort made during a specific opportunity: Describes a single occasion of attempting something.
  • Example: "On the first try, he missed the target."