してみる
shite miru
The phrase "try to" in Japanese is expressed as してみる (shite miru).
This phrase is used when you do something for the first time to see what the result will be.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is formed by attaching the te-form of a verb to the auxiliary verb みる. In this grammatical construction, みる literally means "to see" or "to look," which implies that you are performing an action in order to "see" what happens.
Which one should you use?
While してみる focuses on the experimental aspect of an action, the construction 〜ようとする focuses on the effort or the immediate attempt to perform an action (to strive to or attempt to).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The form してみる is used extensively in informal situations.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express that you actually attempted something in the past, use the past tense form 〜てみた. To suggest that you and someone else try doing something together, use the volitional form 〜てみよう.
How do you pronounce it?
shite miru
Did you know?
- In modern Japanese social media, the form 〜てみた is used as a specific genre of video title, similar to the English 'I tried doing X' challenge videos.
- While してみる describes a trial, Japanese has a separate word 試す for 'testing' a product or person. Using してみる for a formal product test would sound too casual or imprecise.
- The grammar of してみる allows for a 'double try' if you use it with a verb that already means 'to attempt', creating a nuanced sense of tentatively experimenting with an effort.
Examples in context
- 直してみるよ。I'll try to fix it.This sentence shows how to use してみる to express a future intent to fix something.Tatoeba #9752027 by small_snow, translation #5777018 by CK
- 修理してみるよ。I'll try to repair it.This sentence shows how to use してみる to express a future intent to repair something.Tatoeba #9752026 by small_snow, translation #5777020 by CK
- 勉強の合間に、例文を追加してみる。I'll try to add some example sentences in my free time from studying.This sentence shows how to use してみる to express an intent to add example sentences.Tatoeba #11257866 by sh5555, translation #11772357 by pip
- 新しいレシピを試してみます。I will try a new recipe.
- 学生は試験に合格しようとします。The student tries to pass the exam.
- 映画を見てみる。I'll try watching a movie.
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Kenta and Misaki are at a new cafe.
- 健太 Kentaこのお店のコーヒー、飲んでみる？Kono omise no koohii, nonde miru?Do you want to try drinking this shop's coffee?
- 美咲 Misakiうん、新しい味を試してみる！Un, atarashii aji o tameshite miru!Yes, I'll try a new flavor!
- 健太 Kenta美咲は新しいもの好きだね。Misaki wa atarashii mono suki dane.Misaki, you really like new things.
- 美咲 Misaki楽しいから、やってみるのが好きだよ。Tanashii kara, yatte miru no ga suki da yo.It's fun, so I love trying things out.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
