- 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.
“Single guys trying to make it, to married with many kids,” said Freeman, who turns 37 next month.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 25, 2026
Although Pakistan and other mediators are still trying to revive talks, the US has not ruled out further strikes.
From BBC ● Aug. 25, 2026
Rep. Jan Schakowsky, an Illinois Democrat, has been trying for several years to get a bill through the House of Representatives but could not move the ball before her upcoming retirement in January.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 25, 2026
Rep. Brian Seitz, a Branson Republican who guided the amendment through the House, denied that supporters were trying to trick voters.
From Salon ● Aug. 25, 2026
I had to repeat myself, because someone was trying out Morse code with their car horn in the parking lot.
From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith
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.
