Translation guide
Expressing an attempt or effort to do something in Japanese. The most common way is using the volitional form + とする, but other patterns exist depending on nuance.
To try to do something, to make an attempt.
The most common and neutral way to say 'try to do'. It implies making an effort or attempt. The volitional form is the おう/よう form.
He tried to run away.
I tried to open the door, but it was locked.
Means 'try doing something to see what happens' or 'try something out'. It implies testing or experimenting, not necessarily effort.
Please try this cake (and see if you like it).
I tried going to a new restaurant.
Indicates starting to do something but not finishing, or being interrupted. Often translated as 'try to' when the attempt is incomplete.
I tried to talk to him, but he ignored me.
Used in negative form (〜きれない) to mean 'cannot completely do' or 'cannot manage to do'. Implies trying but failing due to capacity.
I couldn't eat it all (I tried but couldn't finish).
To try something out, to test or experiment.
The primary way to say 'try doing something to see the result'. It's about testing, not effort.
Try pressing this button.
A softer, often encouraging way to say 'try doing'. Commonly used with children or in friendly suggestions. Derived from ご覧なさい.
Try thinking about it a little.
To try hard, to endeavor, to strive.
A noun/verb meaning 'to make an effort'. Often used with 〜ように or 〜ために.
He tried hard to succeed.
A very common verb meaning 'to do one's best', 'to persist', 'to try hard'. Often used in encouragement.
Combines the attempt pattern with explicit effort. More emphatic than just 〜とする.
She tried hard to solve the problem.
To attempt something for the first time or as a new experience.
Also used for trying new experiences. The nuance of 'seeing what it's like' fits well.
I want to try living in Japan.
Used to say 'have tried doing something' (experience). Not 'try to' in the moment, but past experience.
Have you ever tried sushi?
〜ようとする focuses on the attempt or effort, often with a sense of striving or an incomplete action. 〜てみる focuses on trying something out to see the result, with no implication of difficulty. Use 〜ようとする when there's a chance of failure or effort; use 〜てみる for casual testing or new experiences.
I tried to open the window, but it wouldn't open.
I tried opening the window. A cool breeze came in.
The loanword トライする exists but is not as common as the native patterns. It can sound unnatural in many contexts. Stick to the patterns above unless you're sure.
I'll try my best to pass the exam.