tries to vs try to

Both "tries to" and "try to" are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Tries to" is used when the subject is singular (he, she, it), while "try to" is used with plural subjects (I, you, we, they).

Last updated: March 20, 2024 • 2728 views

This phrase is correct when the subject is singular (he, she, it).

"tries to"

Use "tries to" when the subject of the sentence is singular, such as "He tries to finish his work on time."

Examples:

She tries to learn a new language.
He tries to be a good friend.
The cat tries to catch the mouse.

Show examples from the web [+]

When someone tries to do something, you can refer to what they do as a try or an attempt. Try is normally used only in conversation and less formal writing.
"Go down to the door and wait, in case she tries to get out," said the colonel. ... of that much-abused organ rebels against such an Intruder, and tries to eject him.
Man tries to lure 14-year-old on her way home from school in Brooklyn. Posted 1: 34 PM, February 17, 2016, by Allison Yang · Facebook · Twitter · Tumblr ...
1 day ago ... OPEC Tries To Freeze Oil Output, But Most Say Effort Will Melt Away. Updated February 16, 20167:00 PM ET Published February 16, 20165:55 ...

Alternatives:

attempts to
strives to
endeavors to

This phrase is correct when the subject is plural (I, you, we, they).

"try to"

Use "try to" when the subject of the sentence is plural, such as "We try to eat healthy food."

Examples:

I try to exercise regularly.
You try to be kind to others.
They try to finish their homework on time.

Show examples from the web [+]

Guess you should try to expedite things.
You should try to call home.
We could try to do something ourselves.
So, try to control your thought process.
Humanity may try to inhabit outer space.
Your pet may try to re-eat the regurgitated food.
People try to pick his pocket.
Think back, try to remember...
So try to be as friendly as possible.
Guess you should try to expedite things.
Please, try to repress your emotions.
Please try to remember something, anything.
Mothers try to protect their children.
Meantime, try to survive tonight.
Indigenous American parents often try to encourage curiosity in their children.
But try to convey my passion.
I try to concentrate on more spiritual matters.
I try to help people achieve their goals.
Oftentimes companies try to include everything in the email.
When highway driving try to use your cruise control.

Alternatives:

attempt to
strive to
endeavor to

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tries to vs try to

"tries to"

"try to"

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