try
verb (used with object)
to attempt to do or accomplish.
was trying
-
past progressiveof try.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
I was trying to schedule a hip MRI on both hips when the imaging center told me my coverage was “not active.”
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 12, 2026
Maybe it would have gone better had he just admitted he was trying to make a little extra cash all along the way.
From Slate ● Sep. 9, 2026
As she was trying to make a decision, she went to a meeting with several other directors about the relaunching of the Village Theater in Westwood.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 9, 2026
"I was trying to keep my weight down all the time and struggling driving up to Scotland for one ride, and the opportunities weren't there at the time."
From BBC ● Sep. 6, 2026
He said, “I was trying to find her.”
From "The Way to Rio Luna" by Zoraida Cordova
