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A1 noun #3,878 most common 15 min read

try on

Top 3,878

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips try on in 30 Seconds

Explanation try on in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'try on' is one of the most useful phrases you can learn for daily life, especially for shopping. It is a phrasal verb, which means it has two parts: the verb 'try' and the word 'on'. When you go to a shop and see a shirt you like, you don't know if it is too big or too small. So, you 'try it on'. This means you put it on your body for a short time to see the size and the color. You usually do this in a special room called a 'fitting room'. A1 learners should focus on the simple sentence: 'Can I try this on?' This is a very polite and common way to ask a shop assistant for help. You can also use it with 'them' for plural things like shoes or trousers: 'Can I try them on?' Remember, the word 'on' always comes after 'try'. It is a physical action that helps you decide if you want to buy something. You use it for clothes, shoes, hats, and glasses. It is a very basic but essential part of English vocabulary for anyone who wants to go shopping in an English-speaking country.

As an A2 learner, you can start to use 'try on' in different tenses and with more detail. You already know it means to test clothes for fit. Now, you should practice using the past tense: 'Yesterday, I tried on a beautiful dress, but it was too expensive.' Note that 'try' becomes 'tried'. You can also use the present continuous to describe what someone is doing right now: 'She is in the shop trying on some new boots.' At this level, you should also be careful with word order. 'Try on' is a separable phrasal verb. This means you can say 'Try on the coat' or 'Try the coat on'. But if you use a pronoun like 'it' or 'them', you must put it in the middle: 'Try it on' or 'Try them on'. You might also use it with adjectives to be more specific: 'I want to try on something smaller' or 'I tried on the red hat, but I prefer the blue one.' This level is about making your shopping conversations more fluid and accurate.

At the B1 level, you should understand the social and practical context of 'trying on' clothes more deeply. It's not just about the physical act; it's about the entire experience of shopping. You might use the phrase to discuss preferences or to give advice to friends. For example, 'If I were you, I would try on that jacket; it really suits your style.' You can also use it in more complex sentence structures, such as with conditional sentences: 'If I had tried on the shoes before buying them, I wouldn't have to return them now.' You should also be aware of related nouns like 'try-on' (though rare) or the 'fitting' process. B1 learners can also understand the difference between 'try on' and 'try out'. While you 'try on' a pair of jeans, you 'try out' a new gym or a new method of studying. Understanding these nuances helps you avoid common mistakes. You might also encounter the phrase in fashion blogs or magazines where authors describe the 'try-on experience' of a particular brand's new collection.

For B2 learners, 'try on' becomes a tool for more nuanced description and storytelling. You might use it figuratively to describe testing a new role or identity. For instance, 'He decided to try on the role of a leader during the group project to see if he enjoyed the responsibility.' While the literal meaning remains the most common, this metaphorical use is more frequent at this level. You should also be comfortable with the passive voice: 'The wedding gown was tried on by dozens of brides before it was finally sold.' Furthermore, you can use 'try on' in more professional or technical contexts, such as discussing the 'virtual try-on' technology that is becoming popular in e-commerce. You might analyze the pros and cons of this technology in an essay or a discussion. At B2, your vocabulary should also include synonyms like 'sample' or 'test the fit' to avoid repetition in your writing. You can also discuss the cultural etiquette of trying on clothes in different countries, using 'try on' as a central theme in your comparison.

At the C1 level, you are expected to have a sophisticated grasp of 'try on' in all its forms. This includes understanding the subtle British slang meaning: 'trying it on'. This means someone is attempting to deceive you or seeing how much they can get away with. For example, 'The contractor tried to charge us double, but we knew he was just trying it on.' Being able to distinguish this from the literal clothing meaning is a sign of high-level proficiency. You can also use 'try on' in complex literary or philosophical discussions. For example, you might discuss how characters in a novel 'try on' different personas as they navigate social hierarchies. Your use of the phrase should be seamless, including perfect control over the separable nature of the verb in complex clauses: 'The garment, which had been tried on by several people before me, was starting to show signs of wear.' You can also use it in the context of advanced fashion industry discussions, such as the environmental impact of 'try-on hauls' and the subsequent high return rates in fast fashion.

As a C2 learner, your mastery of 'try on' is complete. You can use it with precision in any context, from the most mundane shopping trip to a high-level academic critique of consumer culture. You might use the phrase to explore the psychology of the 'mirror moment' during a try-on, or the socio-economic implications of the 'try-before-you-buy' business model. You are comfortable with all idiomatic uses and can effortlessly switch between the literal and the metaphorical. For instance, you might write a piece of creative fiction where the act of 'trying on' a deceased relative's clothing becomes a poignant exploration of grief and memory. You understand the historical etymology of the components 'try' and 'on' and how they combined to form this specific phrasal verb. Your use of 'try on' is not just grammatically perfect, but also stylistically appropriate for the register you are using, whether it's a formal report, a casual conversation, or a piece of literary analysis. You can also identify and correct the most subtle errors in others' usage, demonstrating a deep, intuitive understanding of the phrase's place in the English lexicon.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

try on in 30 Seconds

To try on means putting on a piece of clothing or an accessory to check if it fits and looks good before deciding to buy it.
It is a separable phrasal verb, meaning you can say 'try on the shirt' or 'try the shirt on'. Remember to put pronouns in the middle.
The action typically occurs in a fitting room or changing room within a retail environment, serving as a key part of the shopping process.
Beyond literal clothing, it can metaphorically refer to testing out a new persona, idea, or role to see if it suits one's personality or needs.

The expression try on serves as a fundamental phrasal verb in the English language, primarily utilized within the context of retail, fashion, and personal grooming. At its core, the phrase refers to the physical act of placing a garment, footwear, or an accessory onto one's body to evaluate its suitability. This evaluation is multi-faceted, encompassing the physical dimensions of the item, known as the 'fit', as well as the aesthetic appeal, or how it 'looks'. When you walk into a clothing store and find a pair of jeans that catches your eye, the immediate next step in the consumer journey is to try them on. This action allows the individual to bridge the gap between seeing an item on a hanger and understanding how it interacts with their specific body shape and personal style.

The Retail Ritual: In most global cultures, trying on clothes is a standard prerequisite to a purchase. It takes place in a dedicated space called a fitting room or changing room. This process is essential because sizing is notoriously inconsistent across different brands and regions; a 'medium' in one store might feel like a 'large' in another, making the physical act of testing the garment indispensable.

Beyond the functional aspect of size, trying on is a deeply psychological experience. It is the moment of truth where a shopper decides if the version of themselves they see in the mirror matches the identity they wish to project. People use this term not just for shirts and pants, but for hats, glasses, jewelry, and even makeup in some contexts.

I really like this blue jacket, but I need to try it on before I spend any money to make sure the sleeves are long enough.

The term is also used figuratively, though less commonly at the A1 level, to describe testing out an idea or a new persona. However, in everyday conversation, you will almost exclusively hear it in the aisles of a department store or while preparing for a social event with friends. It suggests a temporary state—you are not 'wearing' the clothes yet in a permanent sense; you are merely sampling them. In a social setting, a friend might ask, 'Why don't you try on that dress? It matches your eyes.' This highlights the collaborative nature of shopping.

The Decision Point: The act of trying on is the final gatekeeper in the commerce cycle. It reduces the risk of 'buyer's remorse'—the feeling of regret after purchasing something that doesn't work. By trying on an item, the consumer gains confidence in their choice.

The salesperson asked if I would like to try on a smaller size after seeing the first one was too baggy.

In the modern era of online shopping, the concept has evolved into 'virtual try-ons' using augmented reality, where technology simulates the experience of wearing an item through a smartphone camera. Regardless of the medium, the core meaning remains: testing for fit and appearance.

Etiquette and Space: When you try on clothes, it is polite to return them to the hanger or the designated rack if they do not fit. In many cultures, trying on items like underwear or swimwear is restricted for hygiene reasons, often requiring the customer to keep their own undergarments on underneath.

She spent two hours trying on different outfits for the wedding before finally choosing the silk gown.

Before you buy those boots, you should try them on and walk around the store to see if they hurt your feet.

The little boy wanted to try on his father's oversized shoes, laughing as he stumbled across the room.

Ultimately, 'try on' is about exploration and experimentation within the world of personal appearance. It is a bridge between the desire for an object and the ownership of it.

Using the phrasal verb try on correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical structure as a transitive, separable phrasal verb. This means that the verb 'try' and the particle 'on' can be separated by the object of the sentence. For example, both 'I will try on the coat' and 'I will try the coat on' are grammatically correct and convey the same meaning. However, a crucial rule applies when using pronouns like 'it', 'them', 'this', or 'those'. In these cases, the pronoun must be placed between 'try' and 'on'. You must say 'Try it on' rather than 'Try on it'. This is a common point of confusion for English learners.

Sentence Structure 1: Noun Object: When the object is a noun, you have flexibility. Example: 'Please try on this shirt' or 'Please try this shirt on'. Both are natural, though 'try on this shirt' is slightly more common in formal retail settings.

If you find a pair of glasses you like, feel free to try them on in front of the mirror.

The verb 'try' in this phrase follows standard conjugation rules. In the present simple, we say 'I try on', 'He tries on', and 'They try on'. In the past simple, it becomes 'tried on'. For example, 'Yesterday, I tried on ten different dresses but didn't buy any.' The present continuous form is 'trying on', as in 'She is in the fitting room trying on a swimsuit.'

Sentence Structure 2: Pronoun Object: This is where the most errors occur. Always place the pronoun in the middle. 'These shoes look small; you should try them on.' (Correct) vs 'You should try on them.' (Incorrect).

The tailor asked me to try on the suit one last time to check the hem of the trousers.

Another nuance involves the use of 'try on' with adjectives. You might say, 'I want to try on something red' or 'I want to try on a larger size.' The phrase can also be used in the imperative form to give advice or instructions: 'Try on the hat and see if it keeps your ears warm.' In more advanced usage, 'try on' can appear in the passive voice, though it is rare: 'The dress has already been tried on by several customers.'

Usage in Questions: Questions often involve 'where' or 'can'. 'Where can I try this on?' is a vital question for navigating a store. 'Did you try on the sweater I gave you?' is a common question among friends or family.

You won't know if the color suits you until you try it on against your skin tone.

Before the performance, the actors had to try on their costumes to ensure they could move freely on stage.

My mother always told me never to buy shoes without trying them on first.

Finally, consider the context of 'trying on' accessories. While we 'put on' a ring or 'wear' a watch, the initial act of testing them in a store is still described as trying on. 'I'd like to try on that diamond ring, please.' This versatility makes it one of the most practical phrasal verbs for daily life.

The phrasal verb try on is ubiquitous in environments where clothing and personal identity intersect. The most common location is undoubtedly the retail store. Whether it is a high-end boutique on Fifth Avenue or a local second-hand thrift shop, the phrase is the linguistic engine of the shopping experience. Sales assistants are trained to encourage customers by saying, 'Would you like to try this on?' or 'The fitting rooms are just over there if you want to try those on.' This is where the word is heard most frequently in its literal sense.

The Retail Environment: In department stores, you will hear overhead announcements or see signs that say 'Please limit yourself to 5 items when trying on clothes.' The phrase is part of the operational language of the fashion industry.

At the mall, I heard a woman ask her husband, 'Do you think I should try on the red one or the black one?'

Beyond the physical store, 'try on' has a massive presence in digital media. Fashion influencers on YouTube and TikTok frequently post 'Try-on Hauls.' In these videos, they show their audience a collection of clothes they have recently purchased and then try them on to show how they look in real life. This has turned the private act of trying on clothes into a public form of entertainment and marketing. You will also hear this phrase in domestic settings. Parents often tell their children, 'Try on your new school uniform to make sure it still fits.' Friends getting ready for a night out might swap clothes, saying, 'Here, try on my leather jacket; it would look great with those boots.' It is a word of preparation and social bonding.

Professional Contexts: In the theater and film industry, actors have 'costume fittings' where they must try on various outfits. A director might say, 'We need to try on the period costumes to see if the actors can move naturally in them.'

The bride-to-be spent the entire morning trying on veils to find the one that matched her dress perfectly.

In the world of sports, athletes try on new equipment—helmets, cleats, or pads—to ensure maximum safety and performance. A coach might remind a player, 'Try on your new skates before the game to make sure they aren't too tight.'

I heard the optometrist say, 'Please try on these frames and tell me if they feel heavy on your nose.'

During the military enlistment process, soldiers must try on their gear to ensure a proper fit for combat readiness.

Literature and Media: In novels, authors use the act of trying on clothes to signal a character's transformation. A character might 'try on' a new identity by trying on a specific type of clothing, like a businessman trying on a tuxedo for the first time.

Whether in a shop, at home, or on a screen, 'try on' is the phrase that signals the beginning of a transformation, however small.

Even for a seemingly simple A1 phrasal verb, try on presents several pitfalls for learners. The most frequent error involves word order, specifically with pronouns. As mentioned previously, 'try on' is a separable phrasal verb. While you can say 'try on the shirt' or 'try the shirt on', you cannot say 'try on it'. The pronoun must always go in the middle: 'try it on'. This is a rule that even intermediate learners sometimes forget in the heat of conversation.

Mistake 1: Pronoun Placement: Incorrect: 'I like these shoes. Can I try on them?' Correct: 'I like these shoes. Can I try them on?' This error is common because many languages do not have separable phrasal verbs.

You shouldn't say 'I tried on it'; instead, say 'I tried it on' when referring to the sweater.

Another common mistake is confusing 'try on' with 'try out'. While 'try on' is specifically for clothing and accessories that you wear, 'try out' is for testing the functionality of an object or a person's ability. You 'try on' a dress, but you 'try out' a new car, a new recipe, or a new software program. Using 'try on' for a car would sound very strange to a native speaker. Confusion also exists between 'try on' and 'put on'. 'Put on' is the simple act of placing clothing on your body, regardless of whether you are testing it or just getting dressed for the day. 'Try on' implies a test or evaluation. If you are already in your bedroom getting ready for work, you are 'putting on' your clothes. If you are in a shop deciding whether to buy them, you are 'trying them on'.

Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Wear': Learners often say 'I am trying on a blue shirt today' when they mean they are wearing one. 'Try on' is a short-term action of testing. 'Wear' is the continuous state of having the clothes on your body throughout the day.

Don't say 'I'm trying on a suit at the party'; say 'I'm wearing a suit at the party.'

Preposition errors are also frequent. Some learners might say 'try in' or 'try with'. While you might 'try on a dress in the fitting room', the verb itself remains 'try on'.

Mistake 3: Overuse of 'Try': Sometimes learners just use 'try' without 'on'. 'I want to try this dress.' While understandable, it is less precise than 'try on' and can sometimes be confused with trying to do something difficult (e.g., 'I want to try to cook').

The customer said, 'I need to try on the boots,' not just 'I need to try the boots.'

When you try on something, you are checking the size, not just looking at it.

It is a mistake to say 'I try on the food'; for food, we use 'try' or 'taste'.

Lastly, be careful with the plural. If you are trying on multiple items, use 'them'. 'I have three shirts; I will try them all on.' Avoiding these common errors will make your English sound much more natural and professional in a retail setting.

While try on is the most common and direct way to describe testing clothes, several other words and phrases offer nuances in meaning or register. Understanding these can help you refine your descriptions of shopping and fashion.

Fit (Verb): While 'try on' is the action, 'fit' is the result. 'I tried on the shirt, but it didn't fit.' Use 'fit' to describe whether the size is correct for your body. It is often used during the act of trying on.

Does this try on session show that the trousers fit you well?

Slip on is a more specific alternative. It implies putting on a garment quickly and easily, often without buttons or zippers. You might 'slip on' a pair of loafers or a loose sweater. It suggests a sense of ease that 'try on' does not necessarily convey. Model (verb) is used when you are showing the clothes to someone else. 'She modeled the dress for her friends.' While she had to 'try it on' first, the word 'model' emphasizes the display and the aesthetic judgment of others.

Sample (Verb): In high fashion or wholesale, professionals might 'sample' a collection. This is more formal than 'try on' and implies a professional evaluation of the fabric and construction rather than just personal fit.

Instead of just trying on the coat, he decided to test its warmth by standing near the air conditioner.

Check the fit is a common phrase used synonymously with 'try on'. 'I need to check the fit of these gloves.' This focuses entirely on the technical aspect of sizing.

Comparison: Try on vs. Try out: Try on: Clothes, shoes, hats, jewelry. (Body-related). Try out: Cars, software, strategies, sports teams. (Performance-related).

You can try on a new style, but you try out a new hobby.

The phrase try on is more specific than 'test', which could apply to almost anything.

If you want to be more descriptive, you can use 'experiment with' a new look instead of just trying on clothes.

In summary, while 'try on' is your go-to phrase, using 'fit', 'slip on', or 'check the fit' can add variety to your English. Just remember the core distinction: 'try on' is the physical act of testing a wearable item.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

In the 17th century, 'trying on' was often used in the context of trying on armor, which was a matter of life and death, not just fashion!

Pronunciation Guide

UK /traɪ ɒn/

US /traɪ ɑːn/

The primary stress is usually on the particle 'on' when used in a sentence, though both words carry weight.

Rhymes With

fly on tie on sky on buy on lie on spy on rely on deny on

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'try' like 'tree'.
Making the 'o' in 'on' sound like 'own'.
Merging the two words too quickly without a clear 'n' sound.
Using a 'y' sound that is too short.
Incorrectly stressing the 'try' instead of the 'on' in 'try it ON'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

Very easy to recognize in context.

Writing 2/5

Slightly harder due to phrasal verb word order rules.

Speaking 2/5

Requires practice with pronoun placement.

Listening 1/5

Clear and common in everyday speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

clothes put on shop size fit

Learn Next

take off fitting room suit (verb) match tight/loose

Advanced

alterations bespoke ensemble silhouette tailoring

Grammar to Know

Separable Phrasal Verbs

You can say 'Try the hat on' or 'Try on the hat'.

Pronoun Placement in Phrasal Verbs

Must be 'Try it on', never 'Try on it'.

Gerunds after Prepositions

He bought the shoes after trying them on.

Modals for Permission

May I try this on?

Present Continuous for Current Actions

She is currently trying on the wedding gown.

Examples by Level

Can I try this on?

Est-ce que je peux essayer ceci ?

Simple question with 'can' for permission.

I want to try on these shoes.

Je veux essayer ces chaussures.

Using 'try on' with a plural noun object.

Try it on!

Essaie-le !

Imperative form with the pronoun 'it' in the middle.

Where can I try on the dress?

Où puis-je essayer la robe ?

Question using 'where' to find a location.

He tries on a new hat.

Il essaie un nouveau chapeau.

Present simple third-person singular 'tries'.

Do you want to try them on?

Veux-tu les essayer ?

Question with pronoun 'them' in the middle.

I need to try on a smaller size.

J'ai besoin d'essayer une taille plus petite.

Using 'try on' with a noun phrase.

She is trying on a coat.

Elle essaie un manteau.

Present continuous 'is trying on'.

I tried on the jacket, but it was too small.

J'ai essayé la veste, mais elle était trop petite.

Past simple 'tried on'.

You should try the trousers on before you buy them.

Tu devrais essayer le pantalon avant de l'acheter.

Using 'should' for advice; noun object in the middle.

She tried them on and they looked great.

Elle les a essayés et ils lui allaient très bien.

Past tense with pronoun 'them'.

Are you going to try on that blue sweater?

Vas-tu essayer ce pull bleu ?

Future with 'going to'.

I don't like trying on clothes when the shop is busy.

Je n'aime pas essayer des vêtements quand le magasin est bondé.

Gerund 'trying on' after the verb 'like'.

Please try on this shirt and tell me what you think.

S'il te plaît, essaie cette chemise et dis-moi ce que tu en penses.

Imperative with a polite 'please'.

He never buys anything without trying it on first.

Il n'achète jamais rien sans l'essayer d'abord.

Negative sentence with 'without' + gerund.

They are trying on costumes for the school play.

Ils essaient des costumes pour la pièce de l'école.

Present continuous for a current activity.

I spent an hour trying on different outfits for the party.

J'ai passé une heure à essayer différentes tenues pour la fête.

Verb 'spend' + time + gerund 'trying on'.

If you try on that dress, you'll see why I like it so much.

Si tu essaies cette robe, tu comprendras pourquoi je l'aime tant.

First conditional sentence.

The assistant asked if I wanted to try on a different color.

Le vendeur m'a demandé si je voulais essayer une autre couleur.

Reported speech using 'asked if'.

I'd like to try this on, but the queue for the fitting room is too long.

J'aimerais essayer ceci, mais la queue pour la cabine d'essayage est trop longue.

Using 'would like to' for desire.

You really ought to try on those boots; they're very comfortable.

Tu devrais vraiment essayer ces bottes ; elles sont très confortables.

Using 'ought to' for strong advice.

Before making a decision, she insisted on trying on every skirt in the store.

Avant de prendre une décision, elle a insisté pour essayer toutes les jupes du magasin.

Verb 'insist on' + gerund.

I was trying on a suit when the fire alarm went off.

J'essayais un costume quand l'alarme incendie s'est déclenchée.

Past continuous for an interrupted action.

It's always better to try on sunglasses to see if they suit your face shape.

Il vaut toujours mieux essayer des lunettes de soleil pour voir si elles vont avec la forme de votre visage.

Infinitive phrase as a subject complement.

The brand offers a 'virtual try-on' feature on their website.

La marque propose une fonctionnalité d'« essayage virtuel » sur son site web.

Using 'try-on' as a compound noun/adjective.

Having tried on several pairs of jeans, I finally found the perfect fit.

Après avoir essayé plusieurs paires de jeans, j'ai enfin trouvé la coupe parfaite.

Perfect participle 'Having tried on' for sequential actions.

She felt like she was trying on a new personality with the leather jacket.

Elle avait l'impression d'essayer une nouvelle personnalité avec la veste en cuir.

Metaphorical use of 'try on'.

The dress was so delicate that I was afraid to try it on.

La robe était si délicate que j'avais peur de l'essayer.

Result clause with 'so... that'.

Customers are encouraged to try on the equipment before committing to a purchase.

Les clients sont encouragés à essayer l'équipement avant de s'engager dans un achat.

Passive voice 'are encouraged to try on'.

I'm not sure about the style, but I'll try it on just for fun.

Je ne suis pas sûr du style, mais je vais l'essayer juste pour m'amuser.

Future simple 'will' for a spontaneous decision.

The fitting room is where most shoppers decide whether or not to buy after trying things on.

C'est dans la cabine d'essayage que la plupart des acheteurs décident d'acheter ou non après avoir essayé les articles.

Gerund 'trying' after the preposition 'after'.

By trying on different roles, he eventually found his true calling.

En essayant différents rôles, il a fini par trouver sa véritable vocation.

Metaphorical gerund phrase.

He's clearly trying it on by asking for such a high salary without experience.

Il essaie manifestement de nous avoir en demandant un salaire aussi élevé sans expérience.

Idiomatic British slang for 'testing limits' or 'deceiving'.

The meticulous process of trying on the historical costume took nearly two hours.

Le processus méticuleux d'essayage du costume historique a pris près de deux heures.

Gerund phrase as the subject of the sentence.

One must try on many masks before finding one's authentic self.

Il faut essayer de nombreux masques avant de trouver son moi authentique.

Philosophical/metaphorical usage.

The sheer volume of garments being tried on during the sale created chaos in the store.

Le volume impressionnant de vêtements essayés pendant les soldes a créé le chaos dans le magasin.

Passive gerund phrase 'being tried on'.

The politician was accused of 'trying on' a more populist persona to win votes.

Le politicien a été accusé d'« essayer » une image plus populiste pour gagner des voix.

Metaphorical use in a political context.

Unless you try on the gear in extreme conditions, you won't know its true worth.

À moins d'essayer l'équipement dans des conditions extrêmes, vous ne connaîtrez pas sa véritable valeur.

Conditional 'unless' with 'try on'.

The ritual of trying on the heirloom gown was a poignant moment for the family.

Le rituel de l'essayage de la robe de famille a été un moment poignant pour la famille.

Noun-heavy formal structure.

The tailor insisted that I try on the waistcoat once more to ensure the drape was perfect.

Le tailleur a insisté pour que j'essaie à nouveau le gilet afin de m'assurer que le tombé était parfait.

Subjunctive mood after 'insisted that'.

The existential dread of the fitting room stems from the vulnerability of trying on a new self.

L'angoisse existentielle de la cabine d'essayage provient de la vulnérabilité d'essayer un nouveau soi.

Complex psychological/philosophical usage.

In his latest essay, he explores the semiotics of 'trying on' identity in the digital age.

Dans son dernier essai, il explore la sémiotique de l'« essayage » d'identité à l'ère numérique.

Academic usage of the term as a concept.

The audacity of the con artist, trying it on with the seasoned investigators, was remarkable.

L'audace de l'escroc, essayant de rouler des enquêteurs chevronnés, était remarquable.

Advanced idiomatic usage of 'trying it on'.

The actress's chameleon-like ability to try on accents is what makes her so versatile.

La capacité de caméléon de l'actrice à adopter des accents est ce qui la rend si polyvalente.

Metaphorical use applied to linguistic skills.

The brand's failure was attributed to customers' inability to try on the lifestyle it promised.

L'échec de la marque a été attribué à l'incapacité des clients à adopter le mode de vie qu'elle promettait.

Abstract metaphorical usage in business analysis.

The ephemeral nature of the 'try-on' culture in social media leads to excessive waste.

La nature éphémère de la culture de l'« essayage » sur les réseaux sociaux entraîne un gaspillage excessif.

Sociological critique using 'try-on' as an adjective.

He spent his youth trying on various philosophies like so many ill-fitting coats.

Il a passé sa jeunesse à essayer diverses philosophies comme autant de manteaux mal ajustés.

Extended metaphor using 'try on'.

The fitting room serves as a liminal space where the act of trying on precedes the act of becoming.

La cabine d'essayage sert d'espace liminal où l'acte d'essayer précède l'acte de devenir.

Highly abstract, philosophical usage.

Synonyms

put on test sample fit check the fit

Antonyms

take off remove

Common Collocations

try on for size

try on a pair of

try on a new look

try on a costume

try on a dress

try on a hat

try on glasses

try on makeup

go to try on

need to try on

Common Phrases

Can I try this on?

— The standard way to ask for permission to use a fitting room.

Excuse me, can I try this on?

Where can I try these on?

— Asking for the location of the fitting rooms.

I have some items; where can I try these on?

Try it on for size.

— A common phrase meaning to test if something fits literally or metaphorically.

Here is the new proposal; try it on for size.

I'll try them on.

— A statement of intent to test plural items like shoes or pants.

Those sneakers look cool; I'll try them on.

Did you try it on?

— Asking if someone has already tested the garment.

The shirt looks small; did you try it on?

Try on a persona.

— To act like a different person to see how it feels.

She tried on a persona of confidence for the interview.

Virtual try-on.

— Using technology to see how clothes look on you digitally.

The app features a virtual try-on for sunglasses.

Try-on haul.

— A video where someone shows and tests many new purchases.

I'm filming a summer try-on haul today.

Try on for fit.

— Specifically testing the physical dimensions of an item.

We need the actors to try on the armor for fit.

Try on a different size.

— Testing the same item in a larger or smaller version.

This is too tight; I'll try on a different size.

Often Confused With

try on vs try out

Use 'try on' for clothes and 'try out' for machines, ideas, or skills.

try on vs put on

Use 'try on' for testing and 'put on' for the general act of dressing.

try on vs wear

Use 'try on' for a short test and 'wear' for the state of having clothes on.

Idioms & Expressions

"Try it on (with someone)"

— To behave in a way that tests someone's patience or to attempt to deceive them.

Don't try it on with me; I know you're lying.

informal/slang (British)

"Try something on for size"

— To test an idea or a situation to see if it is suitable.

Let's try this new schedule on for size next week.

informal

"Try on a new hat"

— To take on a new role or responsibility.

As a manager, he's trying on a new hat this month.

metaphorical

"Try on a smile"

— To attempt to look happy even if one does not feel that way.

She tried on a smile despite her sadness.

literary

"Try on a voice"

— To experiment with a different way of speaking or an accent.

The comedian tried on a French accent for the joke.

neutral

"Try on the role"

— To experiment with a specific social or professional position.

He's trying on the role of a father for the first time.

neutral

"Try on for effect"

— To do something mainly to see the reaction of others.

He made a shocking comment just to try it on for effect.

informal

"Try on a mask"

— To hide one's true feelings or identity.

He tried on a mask of indifference to hide his pain.

literary

"Try on the crown"

— To test out a position of power or leadership.

The vice-president is trying on the crown while the CEO is away.

metaphorical

"Try on a theory"

— To apply a theory to a set of facts to see if it explains them.

Let's try on the evolutionary theory for this behavior.

academic

Easily Confused

try on vs Fit

Both relate to clothing size.

'Try on' is the action of testing, while 'fit' is the result (e.g., it fits or it doesn't). You try it on to see if it fits.

I tried on the dress, and it fit perfectly.

try on vs Suit

Both relate to how clothes look.

'Try on' is the action; 'suit' describes if the style or color looks good on the person.

Try on that green shirt; I think it will suit you.

try on vs Test

Both mean to check something.

'Test' is too general. You test a car or a battery, but you 'try on' clothes.

Don't test the shirt; try it on.

try on vs Match

Both relate to clothing choices.

'Match' is about two items looking good together. 'Try on' is about one item on a person.

Try on this tie to see if it matches your suit.

try on vs Change

Both happen in a fitting room.

'Change' means to take off one set of clothes and put on another. 'Try on' is specifically for testing a new item.

I'm going to the fitting room to try on these jeans, not just to change my clothes.

Sentence Patterns

Can I try [this/them] on?

Can I try this on?

I tried on [noun] but [reason].

I tried on the shirt but it was too big.

If I [tried] on [noun], I would [result].

If I tried on the boots, I would know if they fit.

[Noun] was tried on by [person].

The suit was tried on by many customers.

Stop trying it on with [person].

Stop trying it on with the manager.

I want to try on [noun].

I want to try on that hat.

Don't buy it without trying it on.

Don't buy that coat without trying it on.

I'm going to try on [something/anything].

I'm going to try on something blue.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation and retail.

Common Mistakes

I want to try on it. → I want to try it on.
Pronouns must go between 'try' and 'on'.
I'm trying on a hat for three years. → I've been wearing this hat for three years.
'Try on' is a short action for testing, not for long-term use.
Can I try out this shirt? → Can I try on this shirt?
'Try out' is for machines or ideas; 'try on' is for clothes.
She is trying on her new house. → She is looking at/testing her new house.
You cannot 'try on' a house because you don't wear it on your body.
I tried on the shoes and they fits. → I tried on the shoes and they fit.
Shoes are plural, so the verb 'fit' should not have an 's'.

Tips

Pronoun Middle Rule

Always put 'it' or 'them' in the middle. 'Try them on' is correct. 'Try on them' is a very common mistake you should avoid.

Shoes and Pairs

When trying on shoes or trousers, remember they are plural. Use 'them' and 'these'. 'Can I try these on?'

Finding the Room

After asking to try something on, listen for words like 'fitting room', 'changing room', or 'stalls'. That's where you go!

Handle with Care

When you try on clothes in a shop, be careful with zippers and buttons so you don't damage the item before buying it.

The 'For Size' Add-on

Adding 'for size' (Try this on for size) makes you sound very natural and fluent in a shopping context.

Separation for Emphasis

You can separate the verb and particle for emphasis: 'I really need to try this beautiful, long, silk dress on!'

Listen for the 'n'

In fast speech, 'try on' can sound like 'trion'. Focus on the 'n' sound at the end to identify the phrase.

Makeup Awareness

In many Western shops, they provide 'face covers' to prevent makeup from getting on clothes while you try them on.

Mirror Practice

Stand in front of a mirror at home and practice saying 'I am trying on my [item]' to get used to the sentence structure.

Tailoring Context

In a professional tailoring context, 'try on' is part of a 'fitting'. Use 'try on' for the action and 'fitting' for the appointment.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Try' as 'Test' and 'On' as 'Onto my body'. Test it onto your body!

Visual Association

Imagine a fitting room mirror with a big question mark on it. You are testing the clothes to answer the question: Does it fit?

Word Web

Clothes Mirror Size Shop Fitting Room Shoes Hat Decision

Challenge

Go to a clothing website and find three items. Write a sentence for each using 'try on' in different tenses.

Word Origin

The verb 'try' comes from the Old French word 'trier', which meant 'to pick out, cull, or sift'. This evolved into the sense of 'testing' something. The particle 'on' is of Germanic origin, from Old English 'on', indicating position or contact with a surface (in this case, the body).

Original meaning: To sift or pick out clothes to see if they are suitable.

Indo-European (via Latin/French and Germanic roots).

Cultural Context

Always be mindful of hygiene rules (e.g., wearing underwear when trying on swimsuits).

In the UK and US, it is standard to take a plastic number tag when entering a fitting room to show how many items you are trying on.

The 'Pretty Woman' shopping scene where she tries on many outfits. The 'Devil Wears Prada' scenes involving costume fittings. Cinderella trying on the glass slipper (though 'try on' is used for the test).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Clothing Store

Where are the fitting rooms?
Can I try this on in a smaller size?
I'd like to try these on, please.
How many items can I try on at once?

Shoe Store

Can I try these on in a size 9?
Do you have a mirror so I can try these on?
I need to try them on with socks.
Can I walk around while I try them on?

At Home with Friends

You should try on my new dress!
Let me try on your glasses.
I'm trying on outfits for the wedding.
Does this look okay? I just tried it on.

Theater/Costumes

Time to try on your costumes.
We need to try on the wigs.
Does the armor feel heavy when you try it on?
She is trying on her character's wardrobe.

Optometrist

Try on these frames.
Which ones did you try on already?
I want to try on something more modern.
Try them on and look in the mirror.

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever bought something without trying it on and then regretted it?"

"Do you enjoy trying on lots of clothes, or do you find it tiring?"

"What's the most unusual thing you've ever had to try on?"

"Do you prefer trying on clothes in a store or at home after buying online?"

"If you could try on any famous person's outfit, whose would it be?"

Journal Prompts

Describe the last time you went shopping. What did you try on and did you buy it?

Write about a time you tried on something that looked terrible on you. What happened?

How does it feel to try on a brand new style that you've never worn before?

Discuss the pros and cons of 'virtual try-on' technology compared to physical fitting rooms.

Reflect on the idea of 'trying on' different personalities in different social situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, you should use 'try out' or 'test drive' for a car. 'Try on' is only for things you wear on your body, like clothes, shoes, or jewelry. Using it for a car would sound very strange to native speakers.

It is always 'try it on'. When you use a pronoun like 'it', 'them', 'this', or 'that', it must go between the words 'try' and 'on'. This is a strict rule for this phrasal verb.

A 'try-on haul' is a popular type of video on social media where a person shows many items of clothing they have bought and then films themselves trying them on to show the fit and style to their audience.

You can do both. You 'try on' glasses in a shop to see if you like them. You 'put on' your glasses every morning so you can see. 'Try on' implies testing.

No, you should say 'I'm wearing a blue shirt'. 'Trying on' is only for the short period when you are testing the clothes, usually in a shop or while getting ready.

In British slang, 'trying it on' means someone is testing your limits, behaving provocatively, or attempting to deceive you to see what they can get away with. It's quite different from the clothing meaning.

It is neutral. It can be used in casual conversation with friends and in formal retail environments. It is the standard term for the action.

Not literally, but you can 'try on' a wig to see how a haircut might look. Metaphorically, you might say you are 'trying on' a new style.

The past tense is 'tried on'. For example: 'I tried on five pairs of shoes yesterday.' Remember to change the 'y' to 'i' before adding 'ed'.

The most common and polite way is to say, 'Excuse me, can I try this on?' or 'Could I try these on, please?' They will then direct you to the fitting rooms.