Understanding the Phrasal Verb "Try Out"
Whether you are test-driving a new car or auditioning for a lead role in a school play, you are likely to try out something new. In English, this versatile phrasal verb is a staple of everyday conversation, helping us describe the act of testing, experimenting, or competing for a position. Because it is so commonly used, mastering how and when to try out is an essential step for anyone looking to sound more natural and precise in their daily communication.
Core Definitions and Usage
The beauty of the phrase "try out" lies in its flexibility. Depending on the context, it can refer to physical objects, personal skills, or competitive auditions. Here are the primary ways native speakers use it:
- To test the quality or function of something: You might try out a new kitchen gadget to see if it actually makes cooking easier.
- To audition for a role: Actors and athletes often try out for a part in a show or a spot on a sports team.
- To experiment for the sake of experience: If you are bored with your usual routine, you might try out a new hobby like painting or rock climbing.
- To take a sample: Sometimes, you might try out a small portion of a product—like a software demo or a food sample—before committing to the full version.
Grammar Patterns: How to Use It
Grammatically, "try out" is a separable phrasal verb. This means that when you are using an object (like "a new bike" or "the software"), you can place the object between the two words or after the whole phrase.
Pattern 1: Following the verb
"I want to try out the new restaurant downtown."
Pattern 2: Separating the verb and particle
"I want to try the new restaurant out downtown."
Note that if you use a pronoun (it, them, him, her), you must separate the phrase: "I heard the new game is great, so I’m going to try it out." (Saying "try out it" is grammatically incorrect).
Common Phrases and Examples
You will hear this phrase in various social and professional settings. Here are some examples to help you see it in action:
- Professional: "The company invited us to try out their new management software during the pilot phase."
- Sports: "Hundreds of students lined up to try out for the varsity basketball team."
- Lifestyle: "I’ve been wanting to try out yoga for months, so I finally signed up for a class."
- Creative: "She decided to try out a bolder hair color for the summer."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistake learners make is confusing "try out" with "try on." While they sound similar, they serve different purposes. Use try on when you are talking specifically about clothing or accessories (e.g., "I need to try on these shoes to see if they fit").
Another mistake is forgetting the rule about pronouns. As mentioned earlier, never say "try out it." Always say "try it out." Finally, remember that "try out" generally implies an active process. If you are just thinking about doing something, you are "considering" it; you only "try out" when you are actually engaging in the action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between "try" and "try out"?
Yes. "Try" is general and can mean to make an effort at something. "Try out" specifically carries the nuance of testing, experimenting, or auditioning. You "try" to finish your homework, but you "try out" a new pen to see if you like how it writes.
Can I use "try out" for people?
Usually, no. We use "try out" for things, activities, or roles. If you are testing a person for a job, we typically say "interview" or "test them out," though "test them out" can sometimes sound a bit dehumanizing.
Is "try out" formal or informal?
It is mostly informal and perfectly acceptable in casual, professional, and academic speech. However, in extremely formal writing, you might prefer words like "test," "evaluate," "audition," or "experiment with."
Conclusion
The phrase "try out" is a vital tool for expressing experimentation and ambition. By using it to describe everything from new software to high-stakes auditions, you are adding a natural, idiomatic layer to your English. Remember to pay attention to where you place your pronouns and distinguish it from the specific use of "try on." Now that you have learned the ins and outs of this phrase, it is time to go try it out in your next conversation!