To try means to make an effort to do something, even when you're not sure if you'll succeed. When you try to solve a hard math problem, you work at it. When you try to make the basketball team, you show up for tryouts and do your best.

The word also means to test something out. You might try a new food at dinner, try on shoes to see if they fit, or try a different route to school. In this sense, trying is about experimenting and discovering what works.

In a courtroom, to try someone means to examine the evidence against them in a formal legal process, called a trial. A judge and jury determine whether the person is guilty or innocent.

When something is trying, it tests your patience. Saying “My little brother was being trying today” means he was difficult or annoying.

When people say “nice try,” they're acknowledging your effort, even if things didn't work out this time.