Ci provo
The English phrase "I try" is translated into Italian as Ci provo.
Ci provo is used to express that one will make an effort to achieve a goal or complete a task.
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, the phrase means "I try at it". The particle ci means "at it" or "therein", and it is required when using the verb provare to mean "to try" or "to attempt" in this specific context.
Which one should you use?
While the word provo on its own can mean "I try" or "I test", adding the particle ci changes the meaning specifically to "I give it a try" or "I attempt to do it".
How does it change in a sentence?
Ci provo is the first-person singular present indicative form of the verb provarci.
Did you know?
- While Ci provo means 'I try', using the same verb in the phrase provarci con qualcuno means to flirt with or hit on someone.
- The verb provare shares the same root as the English word 'prove', reflecting the idea that trying something is a way of testing its truth or quality.
- The particle ci is so common that it has evolved into different forms across Italy, appearing as ce in Neapolitan or cci in Sicilian.
Examples in context
- Non faccio sempre ciò che Tom mi chiede di fare, ma ci provo.I don't always do what Tom asks me to do, but I try to.This sentence shows how to use Ci provo when explaining that you attempt to follow someone's requests.Tatoeba #9042402 by Valdast, translation #6656018 by CK
- Io ci provo con tutte le mie forze.I try with all my might.This sentence demonstrates using Ci provo alongside the expression for using all of one's might.Tatoeba #2755513 by fekundulo, translation #2755514 by fekundulo
- Non importa quanto è difficile, ci provo…No matter how hard I try…This sentence illustrates the use of Ci provo when discussing the difficulty of an attempt.Tatoeba #1101628 by riccioberto, translation #1101031 by Ploomich
- Cerco di capire il problema.I try to understand the problem.
- Sto cercando di migliorare il mio italiano.I am trying to improve my Italian.
- Provo a cucinare una nuova ricetta.I try to cook a new recipe.
- Mi sforzo di andare in palestra regolarmente.I try to go to the gym regularly.
- Cerco sempre di fare del mio meglio.I always try to do my best.
- Provo a imparare un po' di italiano ogni giorno.I try to learn a bit of Italian every day.
- Mi sforzo di essere puntuale.I try to be punctual.
- Sto cercando di mangiare in modo più sano.I am trying to eat healthier.
Example conversation
Francesco and Martina are discussing a difficult puzzle.
- FrancescoQuesto puzzle è quasi impossibile!This puzzle is almost impossible!
- MartinaPuoi finirlo entro stasera, Francesco?Can you finish it by tonight, Francesco?
- FrancescoSì, ci provo.Yes, I'll try.
- MartinaFammi sapere se riesci, allora.Let me know if you manage it, then.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ci, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
