Inklingo

How to Say "may try" in Spanish

The Spanish word formay tryis intenteB1 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.

English → SpanishB1
Verb (Conjugation)B1
expressing possibility or hope (subjunctive)
A small, friendly cartoon character standing on its tiptoes, stretching its arm high in an attempt to reach a bright red apple hanging just out of reach on a low branch.

Examples

Por favor, intente llegar a tiempo a la reunión.

Please, try to arrive at the meeting on time (formal command).

No estoy seguro de que él intente hacerlo.

I am not sure that he will try to do it.

Si yo intente hablar con el jefe, ¿me ayudaría?

If I try to speak with the boss, would you help me?

Formal Command (Usted)

When you want to give a polite, formal instruction or advice to one person (usted), you use 'intente'. It means 'Try!'

The Subjunctive Mood

'Intente' is also the special verb form (present subjunctive) used after expressions of hope, doubt, or necessity, often introduced by 'que' (that). For example: 'Es necesario que él intente...'

Confusing 'intente' and 'intenté'

Mistake:Using 'intente' when you mean 'I tried' (which is 'intenté').

Correction: 'Intenté' (with an accent) is the past tense for 'I tried'. 'Intente' is the present subjunctive or formal command.

Related Translations

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