Translation guide
The English word 'try' covers several distinct intentions: attempting an action, testing something out, making an effort, or sampling food/drink. Japanese uses different verbs and patterns for each, and the most common mistake is overusing 試す (tamesu) for general attempts.
Express that someone makes an attempt at an action, often with uncertainty about success.
Attach to the te-form of a verb to mean 'try doing something and see what happens'. This is the most natural way to say 'try to V' for a concrete attempt.
Please try this cake.
I tried going to the new restaurant.
Means 'to test' or 'to try out' something to see if it works or is suitable. Often used for methods, products, or abilities.
Not used for trying food or attempting an action for the first time without a testing nuance.
Means 'to take on a challenge' or 'to try something difficult'. Implies a greater degree of effort or risk.
I will try the JLPT N1 next year.
Colloquial combination of やる (to do) and 〜てみる. Very common in casual speech.
Express that someone tries hard or makes an effort to achieve something.
Means 'to make an effort' or 'to strive'. Used for sustained effort toward a goal.
Express trying something to see if it works, is good, or suits one's needs.
The primary verb for testing functionality, effectiveness, or suitability.
Express trying a small amount of food or drink to taste it.
Used with verbs like 食べる (eat) or 飲む (drink) to mean 'try eating/drinking'.
Try this snack.
Express an attempt in formal or written contexts.
新しい方法を試してみよう。
Let's try a new method.
ちょっとやってみるよ。
I'll give it a try.
He tried hard to succeed.
Means 'to do one's best' or 'to persevere'. Very common in daily encouragement and self-motivation.
I'll try my best to pass the exam.
Literally 'try to do as much as possible'. A natural way to say 'try my best' in a casual context.
I'll try my best, but I can't promise.
Please try this app.
Specifically means 'to try on' clothes or accessories.
May I try on this jacket?
Means 'to taste-test', often used in cooking contexts.
Try the soup (to check the taste).
Formal/literary verb meaning 'to attempt' or 'to try'. Often used in writing or speeches.
A new treatment was tried.
Means 'to attempt' or 'to plan' something, often with a negative connotation (scheme, plot).
He tried to escape.
I tried the new vacuum cleaner.
English speakers often mistakenly use 試す for any 'try'. For simple attempts like 'try to open the door', use 〜てみる (開けてみる) not 試す.
I tried calling him but he didn't answer.