JLPT N4 grammar

V-ようとするmeaning and usage

Meaning

Be about to A; Try to A

This point is also listed at N3.

How to form it

  • verb (volitional form)とする

How it is used

Means “be about to” (often with 「〜た時」) or “try to”, often when the attempt fails or is interrupted. For a plan, use 「〜ようと思う」. The negative 「〜ようとしない」 means “refuse to” or “won't even try”.

Examples

  1. ジェーンはまさに家から出ようとしていた。

    Jane was about to leave the house.

  2. 寝ようとした時、電話が鳴った。

    Just as I was about to go to sleep, the phone rang.

  3. ドアを開けようとしたけど、開かなかった。

    I tried to open the door, but it wouldn't open.