Intentar vs. procurar vs. tratar
The Spanish words intentar, procurar and tratar all carry the general meaning of to try or to attempt but they are used in different contexts and situations. Understanding these differences will be critical to use them correctly and more naturally.
Intentar
A2Intentar is the most direct translation of to try. It can be used either literally as in to try to do something, or more generally in terms of making an effort or making an attempt.
Voy a intentar terminar este libro hoy.
(I'm going to try to finish this book today.)
Intente no llegar tarde.
(Try not to be late.)
Procurar
B1Procurar also means to try, but it suggests a more deliberate, conscious effort toward a specific goal. It conveys a sense of strive to achieve something.
Procuro visitar a mis padres todos los domingos.
(I try to visit my parents every Sunday.)
Debemos procurar mantener la calma en situaciones difíciles.
(We should strive to keep calm in difficult situations.)
Tratar
A2Tratar is typically used in the context of trying something out, or making an attempt with less certainty about the outcome. This word might not always directly translate to try in every context.
Trata de comer un poco más de fruta.
(Try eating a bit more fruit.)
Vamos a tratar de ganar el partido de fútbol.
(Let's try to win the football match.)
Summary
Intentar, procurar, and tratar can all be translated as to try, but they are used in slightly different contexts. The key to understanding their use is that ‘intentar’ implies directly trying, ‘procurar’ suggests a deliberate effort towards an objective, and ‘tratar’ feels somewhat softer, often used for trying something out or when there's less certainty about the result.