He Tried To Get A Job English Grammar Explained

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The intricacies of English grammar often present challenges, particularly when dealing with verb conjugations and the correct usage of infinitives and gerunds. One common area of confusion arises when deciding whether to use an infinitive (to + verb) or a gerund (verb + -ing) after certain verbs. This article delves into the nuances of this grammatical concept, focusing on the specific sentence: "He tried ______ a job in a newspaper firm but he still wasn't satisfied." We will explore why "to get" is the correct answer, dissecting the grammatical rules and providing examples to clarify the usage. Furthermore, we will discuss the broader implications of this grammatical concept, offering insights and tips for mastering English verb forms.

Understanding Infinitives and Gerunds

Infinitives and gerunds are verb forms that function as nouns. An infinitive is the base form of a verb preceded by "to" (e.g., to run, to eat, to sleep), while a gerund is a verb ending in "-ing" (e.g., running, eating, sleeping). The choice between using an infinitive or a gerund often depends on the specific verb that precedes it. Some verbs are followed by infinitives, some by gerunds, and some by either, but with a change in meaning. For example, consider the verb "try." When "try" is followed by an infinitive (to + verb), it means to attempt or make an effort to do something. When "try" is followed by a gerund (verb + -ing), it means to experiment with or test something as a possible solution. This distinction is crucial for understanding the correct usage in various contexts.

The Correct Answer: "to get"

In the given sentence, "He tried ______ a job in a newspaper firm but he still wasn't satisfied," the correct answer is "to get." This is because the sentence implies an attempt or effort to obtain a job. The infinitive form "to get" accurately conveys this meaning. The sentence, therefore, should read: "He tried to get a job in a newspaper firm but he still wasn't satisfied." This indicates that he made an effort to secure employment at a newspaper firm but was unsuccessful or dissatisfied with the outcome.

Why Other Options Are Incorrect

To fully understand why "to get" is correct, it is essential to examine why the other options are incorrect:

  1. Getting: Using "getting" would change the meaning of the sentence. "He tried getting a job" suggests that he experimented with or tested the idea of getting a job, which is not the intended meaning. The sentence is not about experimenting with job-seeking but about making an effort to find employment.
  2. To Getting: This option is grammatically incorrect. The structure "to getting" is not a standard English construction. The infinitive form is "to get," and the gerund form is "getting." Combining "to" with a gerund in this way is not appropriate.
  3. Get: Using "get" without the "to" would also be grammatically incorrect in this context. The verb "try" requires either an infinitive (to + verb) or a gerund (verb + -ing) after it, depending on the intended meaning. Simply using the base form of the verb does not fit the grammatical structure of the sentence.

Deep Dive into the Verb "Try"

The verb "try" is a particularly interesting example when discussing infinitives and gerunds because it changes meaning depending on which form follows it. When "try" is followed by an infinitive (to + verb), it means to make an effort or attempt to do something. For example:

  • He tried to fix the car.
  • She tried to learn Spanish.
  • They tried to reach the summit.

In each of these sentences, the subject is making a deliberate effort to achieve a specific goal. The emphasis is on the attempt itself.

Conversely, when "try" is followed by a gerund (verb + -ing), it means to experiment with something as a possible solution or to test something out. For example:

  • He tried using a different approach.
  • She tried taking a different route.
  • They tried adding more fertilizer to the soil.

In these sentences, the subject is experimenting with different methods to see if they work. The emphasis is on the experimentation rather than the effort itself. Understanding this distinction is crucial for accurate and effective communication.

Examples and Sentence Structures

To further illustrate the correct usage of infinitives and gerunds after the verb "try," consider the following examples:

Infinitives with "Try"

  1. He tried to understand the instructions, but they were too complicated.
    • In this sentence, the subject is making an effort to comprehend the instructions. The infinitive "to understand" conveys the attempt to grasp something intellectually.
  2. She tried to call him, but he didn't answer.
    • Here, the subject is making an effort to contact someone. The infinitive "to call" indicates the attempt to initiate a phone conversation.
  3. They tried to finish the project on time, but they ran out of resources.
    • This sentence describes an effort to complete a task within a specific timeframe. The infinitive "to finish" signifies the attempt to achieve a deadline.

Gerunds with "Try"

  1. He tried using a different software, but it didn't solve the problem.
    • In this case, the subject is experimenting with an alternative software solution. The gerund "using" indicates the trial of a different method.
  2. She tried adding more sugar, but the cake still didn't taste sweet enough.
    • Here, the subject is experimenting with the ingredients to improve the taste of the cake. The gerund "adding" signifies the experimentation with the recipe.
  3. They tried restarting the computer, but the issue persisted.
    • This sentence describes an attempt to resolve a technical problem by trying a common solution. The gerund "restarting" indicates the experimentation with a troubleshooting method.

Other Verbs Followed by Infinitives

Many other verbs in English are commonly followed by infinitives. Understanding these verbs can help improve your overall grammar and sentence construction. Some common verbs that take infinitives include:

  • Want: I want to go to the beach.
  • Need: We need to buy groceries.
  • Hope: She hopes to travel to Europe next year.
  • Decide: They decided to sell their house.
  • Plan: He plans to study abroad.
  • Promise: I promise to help you with your homework.
  • Learn: She is learning to play the piano.
  • Agree: They agreed to meet at the restaurant.
  • Refuse: He refused to accept the offer.
  • Manage: She managed to finish the project on time.

Other Verbs Followed by Gerunds

Similarly, many verbs are commonly followed by gerunds. Recognizing these verbs is crucial for correct usage. Some common verbs that take gerunds include:

  • Enjoy: I enjoy reading novels.
  • Mind: Would you mind closing the window?
  • Finish: They finished eating dinner.
  • Avoid: He avoids driving in the city.
  • Consider: She is considering moving to a new city.
  • Suggest: I suggest taking a break.
  • Practice: He practices playing the guitar every day.
  • Keep: She keeps forgetting her keys.
  • Postpone: They postponed making a decision.
  • Admit: He admitted making a mistake.

Tips for Mastering Infinitives and Gerunds

Mastering the use of infinitives and gerunds can significantly enhance your English proficiency. Here are some tips to help you improve:

  1. Learn Common Verb Patterns: Make a list of verbs that are followed by infinitives and gerunds. Study these lists regularly to reinforce your understanding.
  2. Practice with Examples: Create your own sentences using different verbs and verb forms. This active practice will help solidify your knowledge.
  3. Read Extensively: Pay attention to how infinitives and gerunds are used in written English. Reading books, articles, and other materials can provide valuable context.
  4. Listen Actively: Listen to native English speakers and observe how they use infinitives and gerunds in conversation. This will help you develop an ear for correct usage.
  5. Use Online Resources: Utilize online grammar resources and exercises to test your knowledge and identify areas for improvement.
  6. Seek Feedback: Ask a teacher, tutor, or native speaker to review your writing and provide feedback on your use of infinitives and gerunds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the correct answer to the question "He tried ______ a job in a newspaper firm but he still wasn't satisfied" is "to get." This choice accurately conveys the meaning of attempting to obtain a job. Understanding the nuances of infinitives and gerunds, particularly with verbs like "try," is essential for effective communication in English. By studying common verb patterns, practicing with examples, and actively engaging with the language, you can master these grammatical concepts and enhance your overall English proficiency. Remember, the key is to focus on the intended meaning and choose the verb form that best conveys that meaning. With consistent effort and practice, you can confidently navigate the complexities of English grammar and express yourself with clarity and precision.