"try to call you but in vain" vs "try to call you in vain"

Question

"try to call you but in vain" vs "try to call you in vain"

Both phrases are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. The phrase 'try to call you but in vain' implies that the speaker attempted to call someone, but their efforts were unsuccessful. On the other hand, the phrase 'try to call you in vain' suggests that the act of trying to call someone is futile or pointless. The choice between the two phrases depends on the intended meaning.

Last Updated: February 16, 2024

This phrase implies that the speaker attempted to call someone, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

Examples:

I tried to call you but in vain. Your phone was turned off.
He tried to call the customer service hotline but in vain. No one answered.

Alternatives:

tried to call you without success
attempted to call you but failed
made an unsuccessful attempt to call you

This phrase suggests that the act of trying to call someone is futile or pointless.

Examples:

I will not try to call you in vain. I know you won't answer.
She tried to call him in vain, hoping for a response.

Alternatives:

attempt to call you without success
make a futile attempt to call you
try to call you with no result

Answer 1

try to call you but in vain

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

try to call you in vain

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"try to call you but in vain" vs "try to call you in vain"

try to call you but in vain

try to call you in vain

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