Meaning of try In English

• 0 to attempt to do something:

  • Keep trying and you'll find a job eventually.

  • If I don't get into the academy this year, I'll try again next year.

  • I've tried really hard but I can't convince him to come.

  • I'm trying my best/hardest, but I just can't do it.

  • [ + to infinitive ] I tried to open the window.

  • [ + -ing verb ] Maybe you should try getting up (= you should get up) earlier.

• 1 to test something to see if it is suitable or useful or if it works:

  • I tried that recipe you gave me last night.

  • We don't sell newspapers - have you tried the coffee shop on the corner?

  • [ + -ing verb ] Try using a different shampoo.

  • I'd like to try parachuting.

  • I forgot my door-keys - we'd better try the window (= test it to see if it is open).

  • Most people would prefer to stick to tried and tested methods of birth control.

• 2 to examine a person accused of committing a crime in a law court by asking them questions and considering known facts, and then decide if they are guilty:

  • Because of security implications the officers were tried in secret.

  • They are being tried for murder.

• 3 to worry or annoy someone or upset a person's patience with many, often slight, difficulties:

  • The demands of the job have tried him sorely.

  • He's been trying my patience all morning with his constant questions.

  • Her endless demands would try the patience of a saint (= are very annoying).

• 4 an attempt to do something:

  • They might still have tickets left - why don't you give it a try?

  • This will be her third try at jumping the bar.

  • You could ask him if he's willing - it's worth a try.

• 5 (in the game of rugby) the act of a player putting the ball on the ground behind the opposing team's goal line, which scores points for the player's team

• 6 to make an effort to do something:

  • [ I ] Try to open this jar for me.

  • [ I ] You’ll have to try harder.

  • [ T ] I’m trying my best.

  • [ I ] Maybe you should try getting up earlier (= should wake earlier).

• 7 to test something to see if it is suitable or useful, or if it will work:

  • Have you tried that new recipe yet?

  • I want to try scuba diving.

  • Try the back door (= see if it is open).

• 8 to examine a person accused of committing a crime in a court of law to decide if the person is guilty:

  • He was tried for fraud.

• 9 an effort to do something; an attempt:

  • This will be her third try at an Olympic medal.

  • I decided to give skiing a try.

• 10 to bring someone who is accused of a crime to a court of law to decide if they are guilty:

  • be tried for sth The brothers were tried for financial crimes involving fraudulent use of depositors' money.

  • Their case is being tried next week.