Here the contrast is tasting a sample versus attempting an action.
The idea
Probar can mean tasting a sample; intentar plus an infinitive expresses an attempt. Probar can also mean trying other things.
| Verbo | Uso |
|---|---|
| probar | degustar una muestra |
| intentar + infinitivo | hacer un intento |
Examples
- Pruebo la sopa antes de servirla.I taste the soup before serving it.
- ¿Quieres probar este queso?Would you like to taste this cheese?
- Probamos una muestra de pan.We taste a sample of bread.
- Intento abrir la ventana.I try to open the window.
- Intentamos llegar antes del mediodía.We try to arrive before noon.
- Mi padre intenta reparar la lámpara.My father tries to repair the lamp.
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Watch out
Do not assume probar only refers to food: it can also mean testing or trying an action.
Try it yourself
Choose the correct form for this context. Ella ___ un poco de zumo para saber su sabor. (prueba / intenta)
Show answer or example answer
prueba
prueba: the person tastes a little juice.
Choose the correct form for this context. Yo ___ resolver este problema. (intento / pruebo)
Show answer or example answer
intento
intento: the speaker attempts to solve a problem.
Choose the correct form for this context. Nosotros ___ encontrar la dirección. (intentamos / probamos)
Show answer or example answer
intentamos
intentamos: the group makes an attempt to find the address.
Practice round
Answer questions, then rebuild Spanish sentences where available. We keep your score.
Choose the correct form for this context. Ella ___ un poco de zumo para saber su sabor. (prueba / intenta)
Choose the correct form for this context. Yo ___ resolver este problema. (intento / pruebo)
Choose the correct form for this context. Nosotros ___ encontrar la dirección. (intentamos / probamos)
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
Tap the words in the right order.
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Describe something you taste and an action you attempt.