versuchen

This word is usually followed by what you are trying to do. Often, it's followed by an infinitive verb with zu. So, you versuchen, and then you add zu plus the infinitive verb. For example, Ich versuche zu lernen. That means 'I am trying to learn'. Simple, right? You can also use it with nouns. Ich versuche mein Glück. 'I'm trying my luck'. It’s pretty flexible. Just remember that zu is often your friend here.

Imagine you're learning German. You might say, Ich versuche, Deutsch zu sprechen. ('I'm trying to speak German.') Or maybe you're trying a new recipe. Ich versuche dieses neue Rezept. ('I'm trying this new recipe.') If you’re struggling with a math problem, you’d say, Ich versuche, das zu lösen. ('I'm trying to solve this.') It’s used everywhere, from casual chats to more serious situations.

Use versuchen whenever you're making an attempt. Did you try to call your friend? Ich habe versucht, dich anzurufen. ('I tried to call you.') Are you trying to fix your bike? Ich versuche, das Fahrrad zu reparieren. ('I'm trying to fix the bike.') It’s perfect for everyday actions. It’s also great for expressing a desire to achieve something. You want to get better at something? You versuchen it. It’s your go-to for any effort.

Don't use versuchen when you mean 'to taste' or 'to sample'. That’s a different word: probieren. For example, you wouldn't say Ich versuche den Kuchen ('I try the cake') if you mean eating a piece. You’d say Ich probiere den Kuchen. Also, avoid it if you mean 'to test' something, like testing a machine. That’s often testen. So, stick to versuchen for attempts and efforts, not for tasting or technical tests.

Learners often mix up versuchen and probieren. Remember, versuchen is about effort and attempting, while probieren is about tasting or trying something out as an experience. Another common slip-up is forgetting the zu before the infinitive. It’s like forgetting the 'to' in English! So, instead of Ich versuche lernen, you need Ich versuche zu lernen.

There's sich bemühen, which means 'to endeavor' or 'to make an effort'. It's a bit more formal and emphasizes the hard work involved. Then there's ausprobieren, which means 'to try out' something new, like a new hobby or a new app. It’s more about experimentation. Versuchen is the general term, the Swiss Army knife of 'trying'.

Sometimes you'll hear mal versuchen. This adds a casual, 'just give it a go' feel. Ich versuche es mal. ('I'll give it a try.') It softens the attempt. You might also see versuch's mal! as an encouragement, meaning 'Try it!'. It’s friendly and common in spoken German. It’s like saying, 'What’s the harm in trying?'

Can versuchen be used for trying on clothes? Yes, you can say Ich versuche das Kleid an. ('I'm trying on the dress.') Is there a past tense? Absolutely! Ich habe versucht ('I have tried') or Ich versuchte ('I tried'). What about trying to convince someone? Ich versuche, ihn zu überzeugen. ('I'm trying to convince him.') Easy peasy!