- present participle of try.
trying
Americanadjective
adjective
Other Word 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 make this house work by getting tenants in, buying your brother out and fixing it up may — or may not — be more money than it’s worth.
From MarketWatch • Jun. 24, 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 to save money is not his only challenge, Tom said he is also keen to improve his health and fitness.
From BBC • May 17, 2026
Trying to get Michelle even madder at us?
From "Clairboyance" by Kristiana Kahakauwila
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.
