Meaning & Definition of word "Trial"

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    Trial

    /ˈtraɪəl/

    noun:

    • 1. A test of the performance, qualities, or suitability of someone or something.
      • Example: The new software is currently undergoing a trial period to evaluate its effectiveness.
    • 2. A formal examination of evidence in a court, typically to determine the guilt or innocence of a defendant.
      • Example: The trial lasted for several weeks and featured testimonies from numerous witnesses.
    • 3. An arduous or painful experience.
      • Example: The trials of living in a foreign country can be overwhelming at times.

    verb:

    • 1. To test something in order to determine its quality or performance.
      • Example: We need to trial this new product before launching it to the public.

    Etymology

    Middle English, from Old French 'trial', derived from 'trier' meaning 'to try'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    on trial:

    In the process of being judged in a court.

    trial and error:

    A method of learning or problem-solving based on testing different approaches until finding one that works.

    trial run:

    A preliminary or testing performance.

    Related Words

    test:

    A procedure intended to establish the quality, performance, or reliability of something.

    experiment:

    A scientific procedure undertaken to test a hypothesis.

    assessment:

    The evaluation or estimation of the nature, ability, or quality of someone or something.

    Slang Meanings of trial

    Meaning: Trial by fire

    Example Sentence: He learned how to manage stress after his trial by fire in the project.

    Meaning: Trial balloon

    Example Sentence: The company sent out a trial balloon to gauge public reaction to their new product.