trying
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of trying
First recorded in 1570–80 for the sense “attempting”; 1710–20 for the current sense; try + -ing 2
Explanation
Use the adjective trying to describe an experience that is exasperating or difficult. Babysitting rascally kids for hours can be a trying ordeal. If you've had a trying week, you'll be relieved and happy when Friday night finally arrives. Trying things can be upsetting, tricky, or strenuous. This word comes from a sense of the verb try that means "to make severe demands on a person, or on a person's patience." The first recorded use of trying was in the early 18th century.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Trying to find your first job right now can be a struggle.
From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026
“I’m reaching out to my people at FBI and DOJ. Trying to get him out,” he texted the group.
From Slate • May 28, 2026
Trying to weave together an impossible number of threads means some moments stick out sloppily, like a character’s reveal of a magically healed wound we never knew they had.
From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026
"Trying -- and even failing -- to lose weight is not harmful. But giving up altogether may be."
From Science Daily • May 17, 2026
Trying to escape completely was a different matter.
From "In the Shadow of Liberty" by Kenneth C. Davis
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
