Mastering the Phrasal Verb: Trying On
Whether you are shopping for a new outfit at a boutique or simply organizing your wardrobe at home, you have likely found yourself trying on clothes to see how they look and feel. This common phrasal verb is an essential part of everyday English, specifically when discussing fashion, personal style, and the shopping experience. Understanding how to use this phrase correctly will help you communicate more naturally when you are at the store or talking about your latest purchases.
What Does "Trying On" Mean?
At its core, the phrase trying on is a separable phrasal verb that refers to the act of putting on an item of clothing, footwear, or an accessory to determine if it fits correctly, suits your style, or meets your needs. It is the bridge between seeing an item on a hanger and deciding whether to purchase or keep it.
Usage and Grammar Patterns
Because "try on" is a separable phrasal verb, you can place the object—the item you are wearing—either after the entire phrase or in the middle. Here are the common patterns you will encounter:
- Pattern 1: Try on + [object]. Example: "I am trying on these jeans."
- Pattern 2: Try + [object] + on. Example: "I am trying these jeans on."
- Pattern 3: Try + [pronoun] + on. Example: "I am trying them on."
Note that when you use a pronoun like it or them, you must put it in the middle of the phrase. You would say "I am trying it on," rather than "I am trying on it."
Common Contexts and Phrases
You will most frequently hear this phrase in retail environments, but it can also be used figuratively. Here are a few ways it appears in conversation:
- The Fitting Room: "The associate asked if I needed help while trying on the dresses."
- Styling Choices: "I spent the entire afternoon trying on different combinations of scarves and hats."
- Online Shopping: While we cannot physically try on clothes when shopping online, we often talk about the future act: "I can't wait for my package to arrive so I can start trying on everything."
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even advanced learners sometimes stumble with the mechanics of this phrase. One of the most frequent errors is forgetting the preposition "on." Simply saying "I am trying the shirt" sounds incomplete, as "try" by itself usually implies attempting a task or an effort, rather than testing the fit of a garment.
Another common mistake is word order with pronouns. As mentioned earlier, avoid saying "trying on them." Always remember to keep the pronoun in the middle: "trying them on." Finally, ensure you are using it specifically for items that can be worn. You would not use "trying on" for objects like a book or a lamp; for those, you would simply use the word "test" or "use."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "trying on" only used for clothes?
Generally, yes. It is reserved for items worn on the body, such as shoes, hats, jewelry, glasses, and clothing. If you put on a pair of glasses to see if they look good, you are trying them on.
Can "trying on" be used as a noun?
While the act itself is a verb, you may occasionally hear it used as a gerund to describe the activity. For example: "The trying on of various wedding dresses was the highlight of her day." However, this is more formal and less common than the verbal form.
Is there a difference between "trying on" and "putting on"?
Yes. Putting on is simply the physical act of dressing yourself. Trying on carries the specific intention of testing the fit, style, or size of the item.
Conclusion
The phrase trying on is a staple of English vocabulary, vital for anyone interested in fashion or basic daily conversation. By remembering that it is a separable phrasal verb and keeping your pronouns in the middle, you will be able to navigate shopping trips and style discussions with confidence. Keep practicing, and the next time you find yourself in a fitting room, you will know exactly how to describe what you are doing!