Try to do vs Try doing - Grammar shorts — Explanation

Understanding the difference between try to do and try doing is important for using English naturally. Although both structures use the verb try, they have different meanings.

Try to Do vs Try Doing - Grammar Shorts

Try to Do

We use try to do when we make an effort to do something that is difficult or challenging. The focus is on the attempt or the effort needed to complete an action.

Structure:

try + to + base verb

Examples:

• I tried to open the door, but it was locked.
• She is trying to learn Spanish.
• He tried to fix the computer, but he couldn't.

In these examples, the person makes an effort to achieve a result.

Try Doing

We use try doing when we suggest testing a method or experimenting with an action to see if it helps or solves a problem.

Structure:

try + verb-ing

Examples:

• If you can't sleep, try drinking some warm milk.
• You should try using a different browser.
• She tried changing her password to solve the problem.

Here, the person experiments with an option to find out if it works.

Try to Do vs Try Doing - Difference

Structure	Meaning	Example
Try to do	Make an effort to complete something	I tried to call him, but he didn't answer.
Try doing	Test an idea or method to see if it works	Try calling him later.

Common Mistakes

Learners often confuse these two structures because both are grammatically correct. However, the meaning changes depending on the form used.

• ❌ I tried to take a short break to relax.
  (This means I made an effort to take a break.)
• ✅ I tried taking a short break to relax.
  (This means I tested this method to see if it helped.)

Quick Tip

Remember:

• Try to do = Make an effort
• Try doing = Test or experiment

Practice more with our Try to Do vs Try Doing exercises to improve your English grammar skills and use these structures correctly in real-life situations.