"tried it" vs "gave it a try"

Question

"tried it" vs "gave it a try"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. 'Gave it a try' is commonly used when someone attempts something for the first time or makes an effort to do something. 'Tried it' is more straightforward and can be used to simply state that someone attempted something.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

This phrase is more straightforward and can be used to simply state that someone attempted something. It is a concise way to convey the action of trying something.

Examples:

I tried it, but it didn't work.
She tried it and found it to be delicious.
He tried it, but it wasn't what he expected.
We tried it, but it was too complicated.
They tried it, but it wasn't their cup of tea.

Alternatives:

attempted it
gave it a shot
gave it a go
experimented with it
tested it

This phrase is used when someone attempts something for the first time or makes an effort to do something. It implies giving something a chance or making an attempt.

Examples:

I gave it a try, but I couldn't solve the puzzle.
She gave it a try and ended up loving the new hobby.
He gave it a try, but it was too difficult for him.
We gave it a try, but it didn't work out as we expected.
They gave it a try, but decided it wasn't for them.

Alternatives:

attempted it
tried it out
gave it a shot
gave it a go
experimented with it

Answer 1

tried it

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

gave it a try

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"tried it" vs "gave it a try"

tried it

gave it a try

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