intentar
“intentar” means “to try” in Spanish (making an effort).
to try, to attempt
Also: to give a shot
📝 In Action
Voy a intentar estudiar hoy por la noche.
A1I am going to try to study tonight.
¿Por qué no intentamos hablar con el jefe?
A2Why don't we attempt (or try) speaking with the boss?
Intentaron abrir la puerta, pero estaba cerrada.
B1They tried to open the door, but it was locked.
Si no lo intentas, nunca sabrás si puedes lograrlo.
B2If you don't try it, you will never know if you can achieve it.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
🔀 Commonly Confused With
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: intentar
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'intentar' to say 'I tried to call you'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb *intentāre*, meaning 'to stretch out' or 'to aim at.' This connection shows the original idea of directing one's effort or attention toward a specific goal.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
¿Cuál es la diferencia entre 'intentar' y 'probar'?
'Intentar' means to make an effort toward completing an action (I tried to finish my homework). 'Probar' means to test, sample, or try on (I tried the food; I tried on the shirt).