intentarlo
“intentarlo” means “to try it” in Spanish (making an effort or attempt).
to try it, to give it a shotAlso: to attempt it
📝 In Action
No tengo experiencia, pero voy a intentarlo.
A1I don't have experience, but I am going to try it.
Por favor, ¡solo tienes que intentarlo!
A1Please, you just have to try it!
Si el pastel se quema, al menos lo habrás intentado.
B1If the cake burns, at least you will have attempted it.
Word Connections
Indicative
Present
Imperfect
Preterite
Subjunctive
Present Subjunctive
Imperfect Subjunctive
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: intentarlo
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses the attached pronoun 'lo'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
🎵 Rhymes
📚 Etymology
Comes from the Latin verb *intentare*, which meant 'to stretch toward' or 'to aim at.' This perfectly captures the meaning of making an effort toward a goal.
First recorded: Around the 13th century (base verb *intentar*)
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'intentarlo' the only way to say 'to try it'?
No. Because Spanish pronouns can move, you can also say 'Lo voy a intentar' or 'Voy a intentarlo.' The meaning is exactly the same, but attaching 'lo' to the infinitive is very common and sounds natural.
If I am trying something feminine, like a difficult route (la ruta), what should I say?
You would replace 'lo' with 'la' and say 'intentarla.' The attached pronoun must match the gender of the thing you are trying.