Try and . . . ?
Which sentences are correct?
- Try to stop me.
- Try and stop me.
- Try to open the window.
- Try and open the window.
- Try to relax.
- Try and relax.
- Dinner at eight? I’ll try to make it.
- Dinner at eight? I’ll try and make it.
The correct sentences are A, C, E, and G.
Why?
The word “try” requires an infinitive preceded by “to,” not “and.”
What’s an infinitive?
An infinitive is the unconjugated or base form of a verb, which is linked to the main verb (in this case, “try”) by “to,” not “and.”
The word “and” is a coordinating conjunction that joins two ideas or objects—in this case, two verbs. Although “relax” is fine in the sentence “Try and relax,” the word “try” makes no sense as a stand-alone verb.
To “try” means you are attempting to do something, not attempting and do something. “What are you trying to do?” not “What are you trying and do?”
If you’ve made this grammar error, you’re in good company. Most people are guilty of this one!
