Translation guide
The English word 'trying' can express attempting something, testing something, or describing a difficult experience. This guide covers natural Japanese ways to express these ideas.
try doing (to see what happens)
Attach to te-form of verb
trying (difficult)
Expressing that someone makes an effort to do something, often with uncertainty of success.
The most common way to say 'try doing something' to see what happens or how it goes. Attach to the te-form of a verb.
Let's try going to this new restaurant.
Please try a bite.
Emphasizes the attempt or effort, often when the outcome is uncertain or the action is difficult. Attach to the volitional form of a verb.
He tried to run away but was caught.
Means 'to try' in the sense of taking on a challenge, often for the first time or with a goal.
Means 'to try' or 'to test' something to see if it works or is effective. Often used for methods, products, or abilities.
Expressing that someone tries something out to evaluate it, such as food, a product, or an experience.
Again, the default for trying something out. Works for tasting, testing, or sampling.
I want to try this cake.
I tried using the new smartphone.
Specifically means 'to sample food', often used in stores or markets.
I tried (sampled) cheese at the supermarket.
Means 'to try on clothes'.
May I try on this jacket?
Expressing that a situation or person is hard to endure, annoying, or demanding.
A common adjective meaning 'tough', 'hard', or 'difficult'. Can describe situations or people.
Today was a really trying day.
Means 'painful', 'hard', or 'distressing' emotionally or physically. Often used for trying experiences.
Means 'unbearable' or 'intolerable', used when someone or something is extremely trying.
His attitude is trying (unbearable).
〜てみる is for trying something to see the result or experience. 〜ようとする emphasizes the effort or attempt, often when success is not guaranteed.
I tried natto (to see what it's like).
I tried to eat natto but couldn't.
試す (tamesu) means to test functionality or effectiveness. For trying food, clothes, or activities, use 〜てみる or specific verbs like 試食する, 試着する.
I'm trying to learn Japanese.
Try this cake.
It's been a trying week.
I'm trying to solve the problem.
I plan to try the JLPT N1 next year.
新しい方法を試してみた。
I tried a new method.
He is a trying person.
その経験はとても辛かった。
That experience was very trying.