What part of speech is “trying”
Adjective
Definition:
as an adjective, 'trying' describes something that is difficult or annoying; it tests one's patience, endurance, or nerves.
Rules:
It's used to modify nouns or pronouns. It can be used predicatively or attributively.
Examples:
be aware of the context. 'Trying' as an adjective often comes before a noun (attributive) or after a linking verb like 'be' (predicative). Don't confuse it with the verb form. For instance, 'She is trying' (verb) vs. 'It is a trying task' (adjective).
Verb
Definition:
in this form, 'trying' is the present participle of the verb 'try,' which means to make an attempt or effort to do something.
Rules:
as the present participle, 'trying' can be used in continuous tenses. It can also be used to form gerunds.
Examples:
She is trying to learn Spanish before her trip to Mexico.
Trying new foods can be an exciting experience.
I remember trying to fix the computer, but it was too complicated.
Tips:
don't confuse the continuous form with the adjective form. The context usually clarifies the intended meaning.