пытаться vs стараться
pytát'sya vs starát'sya — attempt vs make an effort
Register: neutral
What it really means
Пытаться means to attempt a particular action, often with an uncertain outcome. Стараться means to apply oneself or make an effort, often stressing diligence, care, or an effort to meet a standard.
Examples in natural speech
Я пытаюсь открыть файл.
I am trying to open the file.
Я стараюсь говорить ясно.
I try to speak clearly.
Он пытался уйти, но дверь была заперта.
He tried to leave, but the door was locked.
Старайся не опаздывать.
Try not to be late.
Мы пытаемся понять это правило.
We are trying to understand this rule.
Common mistakes
Do not use стараться merely for an attempt at one difficult task: Он пытается открыть дверь focuses on whether he can do it. Use стараться when the point is sustained conscientious effort or self-control, as in Старайся говорить медленнее; it does not by itself imply success.
Memory tip
Пытаться is testing whether a locked door will open; стараться is deliberately practising until your speech becomes clearer.
Frequently asked questions
Can both verbs be followed by an infinitive?
Yes: пытаться решить задачу and стараться решить задачу. The first highlights the attempted task; the second highlights the effort invested in it.
Why does «стараться не опаздывать» sound natural?
Avoiding lateness is an ongoing standard of behavior, so стараться emphasizes a continuing effort to be punctual rather than one isolated attempt.
Does «пытаться» imply failure?
No. It leaves success open. Я пытался дозвониться may suggest difficulty from context, but the verb itself only says that the attempt was made.
Note: This site uses JavaScript for interactive drills, audio playback, and progress tracking. Please enable JavaScript for the full experience.