"tried to call" vs "tried calling"

Question

"tried to call" vs "tried calling"

Both "tried to call" and "tried calling" are correct and commonly used in English. They have a slightly different meaning and usage. "Tried to call" implies an attempt to make a phone call, while "tried calling" suggests an attempt to reach someone via phone. The choice between them depends on the context and the emphasis you want to convey.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

This phrase is used when referring to attempting to make a phone call to someone.

Examples:

I tried to call you, but you didn't answer.
She tried to call her friend, but the line was busy.
He tried to call for help when he got lost in the forest.

Alternatives:

attempted to call
wanted to call
intended to call
aimed to call
sought to call

This phrase is used when referring to attempting to reach someone via phone.

Examples:

I tried calling you, but you didn't pick up.
She tried calling her parents, but they were out of town.
He tried calling the office to check his schedule.

Alternatives:

attempted calling
wanted to reach by phone
intended to make a call
aimed to contact by phone
sought to reach via phone

Answer 1

tried to call

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

tried calling

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

"tried to call" vs "tried calling"

tried to call

tried calling

Related Comparisons