J'essayais (en. I was trying)

[ʒ‿esɛjɛ]

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

verb

To try to do something, to attempt an action.

I was trying to understand his reasons.

J'essayais de comprendre ses raisons.

To put something or someone to the test.

I was trying on my new shoes before going out.

J'essayais mes nouvelles chaussures avant de sortir.

To exercise or test a skill.

I had been trying to play the piano for a year.

J'essayais de jouer du piano depuis un an.

Comes from the verb 'essayer', derived from the Latin 'exagere' meaning 'to push' or 'to bring into a measure'.

to try to

Attempt to achieve something.

essayer de

to try something

To put a new object or idea to the test.

essayer quelque chose

to try on a coat

To put on a coat to see if it fits.

essayer un manteau

to try

Act of attempting to achieve something.

essayer

attempt

Action of trying to do something.

tentative

experience

Practical test of an idea or a skill.

expérience

To try as best as one can

I was trying my best to finish this project.

Je j'essayais tant bien que mal de finir ce projet.

To try without guarantee

I was trying without a promise of success, but I'm doing my best.

Je j'essayais sans promesse de réussir, mais je fais de mon mieux.