trying

1 of 2

adjective

try·​ing ˈtrī-iŋ 

: severely straining the powers of endurance

a trying experience

tryingly adverb

trying

2 of 2

present participle of try entry 1

Synonyms

Adjective

• bitter
• brutal
• burdensome
• cruel
• excruciating
• grievous
• grim
• hard
• hardhanded
• harsh
• heavy
• inhuman
• murderous
• onerous
• oppressive
• rough
• rugged
• searing
• severe
• stiff
• tough

Examples of trying in a Sentence

Adjective

They have been through some trying times together.

He can be very trying at times.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

In the eyes of the organization, Hertl has responded, both in terms of his production and leadership, even as the Sharks have experienced their most trying season in a generation. —Curtis Pashelka, The Mercury News, 4 Jan. 2024

Saving for eventually leaving the workforce while paying regular bills marred by inflation and digging out of the negatives becomes an even more trying feat. —Chloe Berger, Fortune, 8 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1718, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing trying

• it is not for lack/want of trying
• what are you trying to prove

Kids Definition

trying

adjective

try·​ing

ˈtrī-iŋ

: hard to bear or put up with

these are trying times