try and, try to

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Although both expressions are idiomatic, they are not always interchangeable. Try to is more appropriate to formal writing.

  • Informal: “Try and catch me! Bet you can’t!” shouted the child, racing off.
  • Formal: When proofreading, try to catch any errors in spelling or grammar.

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© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, represented by the Minister of Public Services and Procurement
A tool created and made available online by the Translation Bureau, Public Services and Procurement Canada

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