The subjuntivo presente of Intentar is used to express desires, doubts, or uncertainty about trying something, for example: Espero que intentes terminar el proyecto a tiempo. (I hope you try to finish the project on time.)

Intentar is a regular -ar verb, so its present subjunctive conjugations follow the typical pattern for that verb type.

Conjugations

Conjugations of Intentar (to try) in the Subjunctive Mood tense (Castilian Spanish):

Intentar generally means “to try” or “to attempt”, but has several different meanings in the Subjunctive Mood, some of which might surprise you.

To try to do something: For example, Es importante que intentes terminar el proyecto a tiempo. (It’s important that you try to finish the project on time.)

To attempt to do something: For example, No intentes engañarme, ¿vale? (Don’t attempt to deceive me, okay?)

To make an effort: For example, Intenta que no se te olvide. (Try not to forget it.)

To aim to do something (colloquial): For example, Intenta no llegar tarde a la fiesta. (Try not to be late for the party.)

To dare to do something (rude): For example, ¿Intentas faltarme al respeto, so gilipollas? (Are you trying to disrespect me, you idiot?)

Examples

Examples of Intentar in the Subjunctive Mood

Antes de salir de viaje, intente aprender algunas frases básicas en el idioma local. (Before going on a trip, try to learn some basic phrases in the local language.)

Para mejorar sus habilidades de comunicación, intente escuchar más y hablar menos. (To improve your communication skills, try to listen more and speak less.)

Si quiere mantenerse en forma, intente hacer ejercicio regularmente. (If you want to stay in shape, try to exercise regularly.)

Aunque sea difícil, intentemos ser más pacientes con los demás. (Although it’s difficult, let’s try to be more patient with others.)

Para ahorrar dinero, intenten llevar su almuerzo al trabajo en lugar de comprar comida. (To save money, try to bring your lunch to work instead of buying food.)

Si intentas estudiar un poco cada día, tendrás más éxito en tus exámenes. (If you try to study a little every day, you’ll be more successful on your exams.)

Aunque la situación sea complicada, intente mantener la calma y buscar una solución. (Although the situation is complicated, try to remain calm and look for a solution.)

Para mejorar su español, intenten leer libros o ver películas en ese idioma. (To improve your Spanish, try reading books or watching movies in that language.)

Cuando conozca a alguien nuevo, intente hacer preguntas y mostrar interés en su vida. (When meeting someone new, try to ask questions and show interest in their life.)

Si quiere progresar en su carrera, intente tomar cursos de capacitación o aprender nuevas habilidades. (If you want to progress in your career, try to take training courses or learn new skills.)

Aunque sea difícil, intentemos ser más conscientes del medio ambiente y reducir nuestro impacto. (Although it’s difficult, let’s try to be more environmentally conscious and reduce our impact.)

Para mantenerse saludable, intente comer más frutas y verduras frescas. (To stay healthy, try to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables.)

Si quiere mejorar su relación con su familia, intente pasar más tiempo de calidad con ellos. (If you want to improve your relationship with your family, try to spend more quality time with them.)

Aunque esté ocupado, intente tomarse un descanso de vez en cuando para relajarse. (Although you’re busy, try to take a break every now and then to relax.)

Para mantenerse motivado, intenten establecer metas realistas y celebrar sus logros. (To stay motivated, try to set realistic goals and celebrate your achievements.)

Conjugations with English Translations

Conjugations of Intentar (to try) in the Subjunctive Mood tense (Castilian Spanish) with English Translations:

This post covers Castilian Spanish. For Latin American Spanish, click here

Synonyms

The Subjunctive mood is also known as the Simple Subjunctive, Subjunctive Present, or Present Subjunctive Mood in English, and as Presente de Subjuntivo, Subjuntivo Presente, Presente del Modo Subjuntivo, or Tiempo Presente del Subjuntivo in Spanish.