Spanish Conversation · Level 38
74 words
Spanish word
intentar
Pronunciation
IPA/intenˈtaɾ/
Meaning
- verbtry
Example
Ella va a intentar cocinar una receta nueva.
She is going to try to cook a new recipe.
More examples
Voy a intentar hablar español con mi compañero hoy.
I'm going to try to speak Spanish with my classmate today.
Core concept
A runner lunging toward a finish line but not yet across.
Common phrases
intentar hacer
try to do
intentar aprender
try to learn
intentar arreglar
try to fix
Similar words
tratar: Works by applying a method or approach to reach a goal.
probar: Tests an idea or method in practice to check the result.
procurar: Endeavors to secure a desired outcome using all available means.
esforzarse: Exerts sustained effort toward reaching a goal.
Definition in Spanish
Probar o ejecutar una acción con ánimo de conseguir un resultado, aunque el éxito no esté asegurado.
Word origin
From Latin intentāre, derived from intendere (in- 'toward' + tendere 'to stretch'), originally meaning to direct effort toward a goal.
Usage tips
- The verb often looks like English 'intend' but means to make an attempt, while Spanish speakers use 'tener la intención de' to express 'intend'.