intentaron
“intentaron” means “they tried” in Spanish (past completed action).
they tried, they attempted
Also: you (plural, formal) tried
📝 In Action
Intentaron subir la montaña antes de que anocheciera.
A2They tried to climb the mountain before it got dark.
Los doctores intentaron varias terapias nuevas sin éxito.
B1The doctors attempted several new therapies without success.
Ustedes intentaron convencerlo, pero él ya había tomado su decisión.
B2You (all) tried to convince him, but he had already made up his mind.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: intentaron
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence correctly uses 'intentaron'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
Comes from the Latin verb *intendere*, which meant 'to stretch toward' or 'to aim at.' This origin perfectly captures the idea of setting one's mind or effort toward a goal.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'intentaron' used more often for physical actions or mental efforts?
'Intentaron' (and the verb 'intentar') is used equally for both. You can 'intentar correr' (a physical action) or 'intentar recordar' (a mental effort). It covers any kind of effort directed toward a goal.
Can I use 'intentaron' to mean 'they tasted'?
No. While 'to try' in English can mean 'to taste food,' in Spanish, you must use the verb 'probar' (e.g., 'Probaron la sopa'). 'Intentaron' strictly means 'they attempted'.