What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
trying
Example
It was a trying time for the family after their house burned down. [trying: adjective]
Example
The long wait at the airport was trying for the tired passengers. [trying: gerund or present participle]
taxing
Example
The final exam was very taxing for the students who had to study hard. [taxing: adjective]
Example
The constant demands of the job were taxing on her mental health. [taxing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trying is more commonly used than taxing in everyday language. Trying is a common word that can be used in various contexts, while taxing is less common and often used in professional or technical settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between trying and taxing?
Taxing is generally considered more formal than trying. It is often used in professional or technical settings, while trying can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
