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"Probar" is a transitive verb which is often translated as "to try", and "tratar de" is a transitive verb phrase which is often translated as "to be about". Learn more about the difference between "probar" and "tratar de" below.
probar(
proh
-
bahr
)A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object (e.g., I bought a book.).
1. (to trial)
b. to test
Se tiene que probar este producto antes de venderlo.This product needs to be tested before being sold.
c. to try out
Puedes probar el servicio durante un mes antes de suscribirte.You can try out the service for a month before subscribing.
2. (culinary)
probarse
A reflexive verb is a verb that indicates that the subject performs an action on itself (e.g., Miguel se lava.).
4. (clothing)
a. to try on
¿Por qué no te pruebas el vestido antes de comprarlo?Why don't you try the dress on before buying it?
tratar de(
trah
-
tahr
deh
)A transitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and requires a direct object (e.g., take out the trash.).
a. to be about
Mi trabajo trata de los efectos del calentamiento global.My paper is about the effects of global warming.
b. to deal with
Esta investigación tratar de la contaminación visual en las grandes ciudades.This research deals with visual pollution in big cities.
2. (to attempt)
