What does the phrasal verb “try for” mean?

What are the definitions of “try for”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Make an attempt to get something.

  I'm going to TRY FOR the job.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “try for”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb try for is to make an attempt to get something, such as a job, a position, or an achievement. It means you are putting effort into achieving a goal or obtaining something you want.

What are the different verb forms of “try for”?

Root Verb	try for
Third Person Singular Present	tries for
Present Participle	trying for
Simple Past	tried for
Past Participle	tried for

Example

She will try for the scholarship next year.

Example

He tries for a promotion at work every year.

Example

They are trying for a spot on the sports team.

Example

Last month, he tried for a new job but didn't get it.

Example

She has tried for many positions but hasn't found the right one yet.

What kind of phrasal verb is “try for”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“try for” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

He tried for the job but didn't get it.

Example

She tried for a spot on the team but wasn't selected.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“try for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

He tried for the job but didn't get it.

Example

She tried for a spot on the team but wasn't selected.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “try for”?

Try for a baby

Attempt to conceive a child.

Example

They have been trying for a baby for a few months now.

Try for a record

Attempt to break or set a new record.

Example

The athlete is trying for a new world record in the marathon.

Try for a prize

Attempt to win a prize or award.

Example

The students are trying for the top prize in the science competition.

Good things to know

Does “try for” have an informal or formal tone?

Try for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as job interviews or academic discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “try for”?

Synonyms

• attempt
• seek
• pursue
• endeavor
• aspire
• strive for
• aim for

Antonyms

• abandon
• quit
• ignore
• neglect
• disregard
• give up