“Are you trying to + verb” is a common English pattern used when we ask about someone’s intention or action. We use it when we think someone is doing something or planning to do something. For example, if someone is opening a window, you can ask, “Are you trying to open the window?” It helps in real conversations at home, office, or with friends. This structure is useful for showing curiosity, checking actions, or even expressing surprise. It makes your English sound natural and polite in daily speaking.
◎ Important Points
- Use it to ask about someone’s intention
- Always use “trying to” + base verb (no -ing form)
- It is mostly used in present situations
- Tone matters: it can sound polite or sarcastic
- Common in daily conversations
- Do not forget “are you” at the beginning
- Use correct verb after “to”
➤Key Concept
✅ Sentence Structure: Subject + are + trying to + base verb
Example: You are trying to learn English.
Concept:
This structure helps you talk about actions someone is attempting right now. It focuses on effort or intention.
Tip:
Use a friendly tone to avoid sounding rude when asking questions.
| Common Mistake | Wrong Example | Correct Example |
|---|---|---|
| Using -ing after “to” | Are you trying to opening the door? | Are you trying to open the door? |
| Missing “to” | Are you trying open this file? | Are you trying to open this file? |
| Wrong helping verb | Do you trying to fix it? | Are you trying to fix it? |
| Using past form | Are you trying to opened it? | Are you trying to open it? |
| Wrong word order | Trying you to call him? | Are you trying to call him? |
➤ Examples
- Are you trying to call me?
- Are you trying to learn English online?
- Are you trying to fix the laptop?
- Are you trying to cook dinner?
- Are you trying to open this app?
- Are you trying to help me?
- Are you trying to find your keys?
- Are you trying to complete the work today?
- Are you trying to book a ticket?
- Are you trying to understand this lesson?
➤ Practice Examples
Fill in the blanks
- Are you trying to ______ (learn) English?
- Are you trying to ______ (open) the door?
- Are you trying to ______ (call) your friend?
- Are you trying to ______ (fix) the bike?
- Are you trying to ______ (read) this book?
Change incorrect sentence to correct one
- Are you trying fix this?
- Are you trying to fixing the issue?
- Do you trying to help me?
- Are you trying to called him?
- Trying you to learn English?
Speak this sentence aloud
- Are you trying to improve your English?
- Are you trying to complete your homework?
- Are you trying to wake up early?
- Are you trying to save money?
- Are you trying to understand me?
