The verb to try · Conjugation
Past Simple of try
The answer: tried
A2
A finished action at a definite time in the past.
Quick answer
The Past Simple of the verb to try is tried.
Example: I tried to call you.
Full conjugation in the Past Simple
| Pronoun | Form |
|---|---|
| I | tried |
| You | tried |
| He / She / It | tried |
| We | tried |
| You (pl.) | tried |
| They | tried |
Common mistakes to avoid
1. She tryed again ❌
Say She tried again. With a consonant + y, the y becomes i before -ed: try → tried, cry → cried, study → studied.
2. I tried open the door ❌
After try, you need to + verb or an -ing form: I tried to open the door (an effort) or I tried opening the door (a test). Try + the base form alone is wrong.
Practice quiz
Going further
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Frequently asked questions
What is the past tense of try?+
The past tense of try is tried (y → ied). Try is a regular verb, but its spelling changes: I tried my best.
What is the difference between tried to call and tried calling?+
Both are correct. I tried to call you means I made an effort, but I didn't manage. I tried calling you means calling was one idea, a test to see if it worked: I tried calling you, then I sent a message.
What does try on mean?+
Try on means to put on clothes to see if they fit or look good: Can I try this jacket on? She tried on three dresses.
What does try out mean?+
Try out means to test something to see if it works or if you like it: We tried out the new game last weekend.
What does give it a try mean?+
Give it a try means try something once, to see what happens: I've never played chess, but I'll give it a try.
Related pages: try Past Simple
Pages on a similar topic or with a similar use, so you can keep exploring.
Updated on 12 November 2026 by the Big Challenge teaching team. Every year, more than 500,000 students across Europe take part in our English contest, created in 1999. Our teaching approach →
The Big Challenge · Updated on 12 November 2026 · Source: www.thebigchallenge.com/bl/academy/learn-english/verbs/try/past-simple
© The Big Challenge. Copying allowed for classroom use. Every year, more than 500,000 students across Europe take part in our English contest, created in 1999.
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More forms of the verb to try are coming soon.