Japanese grammar · ≈ JLPT N3 · Intermediate 2
意向形＋とするikoukei + to suru
try or be about to
Add とする to a verb’s volitional form to describe an attempt or the moment just before starting an action.
How it works
He tries pressing the switch, but the light stays off. Which part of the picture shows the attempt, and which shows the result?
Add 「とする」 to the verb’s volitional form: つけよう＋とする. Use the volitional form, not the dictionary form.
It means trying to do something. The focus is on the attempt to carry out the action, beyond just an intention in your mind.
It can also mean being just about to start an action. As his hand reaches toward the switch, he is at the moment just before starting.
「とした」 describes a past attempt. Making an attempt does not mean the intended action was completed.
You try to turn on the light, but it stays off; you run hot water, but only cold water comes out. The desired result differs from what actually happens.
This pattern does not itself mean failure. Whether the attempt succeeds depends on what follows or on the actual situation.
Example sentences
- 電気denkiをoつけようtsukeyouとtoしたshitaんnですdesuが、ga、つきませんでした。tsukimasendeshita。
I tried to turn on the light, but it didn't turn on.
In a conversation
- Aブレーカーを上げようとしたんですが、すぐに落ちてしまうんです。
A: I tried to flip the breaker switch up, but it trips immediately.
- B
Check yourself
Level 1 · Recognise
Which sentence is correct?
Level 1 · Recognise
Listen and choose the meaning
Level 2 · Build
Put the words in order
I tried to turn on the light, but it didn't come on.
Level 3 · Use
What goes in the blank?
ドアを開け____ら、内側から鍵がかかっていました。
When I tried to open the door, it was locked from the inside.
More grammar in this theme
- 意向形＋とするtry or be about to