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Definition try in British English

try verb

verb
/traɪ/
1

to attempt to do something

Example

I know she's not very helpful, but she does try.

Example

Don't try any of your tricks with me!

Example

Just try to stay calm.

Example

I will try and get the report to you today.

Example

She tried talking about it to Steve, but he wouldn't listen.

Example

Just try your best. I'm sure you'll be fine.

Example

We'll just have to try harder next time.

Example

He was trying desperately not to laugh.

Example

Jamie tried and tried and eventually he got a job.

Synonyms and related words
boil the ocean work strive
1.1

to attempt to open something such as a door or window, especially in order to see whether it is locked

Example

I'm sure someone tried the door.

Synonyms and related words
open up open try
2

to do something in order to find out what happens, or to find out whether something is good, suitable, effective etc

Example

He tried seven different colours before finding the right one.

Example

I want to try playing tennis this spring.

Example

Try adding cornflour to thicken the sauce a bit.

Example

The drug isn't ready to be tried on humans yet.

Example

Try this pair for size - they look about right.

Example

Let's try something different with your hair this time.

Example

'Would you like to go skydiving?' 'I'll try anything once.'

Synonyms and related words
test try out put through
2.1

if you try a food or drink, you taste it in order to find out whether you like it

Example

Have you tried these scones?

Synonyms and related words
eat swallow have drink swallow have
3

to go to a particular place hoping to find someone or something

Example

I tried the library for his new book.

Synonyms and related words
go through look out for seek out
3.1

to attempt to talk to someone because they might be able to help you or to give you information

Example

You could try Monica - she knows a lot about gardening.

Synonyms and related words
investigate look into follow up
4

to judge a person or case in a court of law

Example

Franklin's case will be tried on 25th August.

Example

He was tried for murder and found guilty.

Synonyms and related words
affirm allow all rise
Definition try in British English

Related Words

Words related to try:

your best (phrase) your utmost (to do something) (phrase) don’t try this at home (phrase) give someone a try (phrase) give something a try (phrase) if at first you don’t succeed, (try, try, and try again) (phrase) try (phrase) your wings (phrase) touchdown (noun) try (verb) try (noun) try as someone might (phrase) try for (phrasal verb) try on (phrasal verb) try out (phrasal verb) try out for (phrasal verb) try someone’s patience (phrase) try to run before you can walk (phrase) try your hand at something (phrase) try-out (noun) your luck (at something) (phrase) every trick in the book (phrase)