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
'Intentar' 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
'Procurar' 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
'Tratar' 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.