Inklingo

How to Say "we try" in Spanish

English → Spanish

intentamos

een-ten-TAH-mos/in.tenˈta.mos/

verbA2present action
Use 'intentamos' when the emphasis is on the mental effort or the intention to do something, often implying a hope or desire for a specific outcome.
A simple storybook illustration showing two small, colorful characters actively working together to push a large, brightly colored square block up a gentle, grassy incline.

Examples

Intentamos aprender algo nuevo cada día.

We try to learn something new every day.

Si intentamos hablar español, mejoraremos rápido.

If we try to speak Spanish, we will improve quickly.

Ayer intentamos arreglar el coche, pero no pudimos.

Yesterday we tried to fix the car, but we couldn't.

The 'Nosotros' Form

This word specifically means 'we' are performing the action. The verb intentar is regular, so the 'nosotros' ending is always -amos in the present tense.

Following with 'a'

Unlike English ('we try to do'), Spanish often uses the verb directly followed by the action: 'Intentamos hacer la tarea' (We try to do the homework). No 'a' is needed after intentar.

Confusing Tenses

Mistake: “Intentamos (Present) vs. Intentábamos (Imperfect)”

Correction: 'Intentamos' usually means 'we try now.' If you want to talk about a continuous effort in the past (e.g., 'We used to try'), use 'intentábamos'.

tratamos

/trah-TAH-mos//tɾaˈta.mos/

verbA2present action/habitual action
Use 'tratamos' when the focus is on the action of making an effort or dealing with a situation, often suggesting a habitual or consistent approach.
Two figures are pushing a large blue block forward, straining with effort, illustrating the concept of making an attempt.

Examples

Siempre tratamos de llegar a tiempo a las reuniones.

We always try to arrive at the meetings on time.

Ayer tratamos de arreglar el coche, pero fue imposible.

Yesterday we attempted to fix the car, but it was impossible.

¿Qué tratamos de lograr con este proyecto?

What are we trying to achieve with this project?

Using 'Tratar de'

When 'tratar' means 'to try' or 'to attempt,' it almost always needs the little word 'de' right after it, followed by the action you are trying to do (the infinitive verb).

Intentamos vs. Tratamos

The most common mistake is using 'intentamos' when 'tratamos' would be more natural for habitual actions. While 'intentamos' focuses on the mental effort or desire, 'tratamos' often implies the ongoing action or process of trying.

Related Translations

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