make trial of: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘make trial of’ mean?

When someone makes trial of something, they try it out or test it to see if it works or is effective.

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The idiom "make trial of" is an expression that has its roots in Middle English and has been in common usage since the late 14th century. It comes from the Old French phrase "faire trier de," which means "to put to the test" or "to endeavor." The word "make" in this context means to initiate or attempt, while "trial" refers to an experiment or a test.

In its current usage, "make trial of" is primarily used to describe the act of testing or experimenting with something to determine its effectiveness, suitability, or quality. It implies a deliberate effort or action taken in order to gain knowledge or experience about a particular subject or object. The idiom is often associated with putting something to the test to assess its worth or capabilities.

The idiom "give something a try" is a related phrase that conveys a similar meaning to "make trial of." In both cases, the focus is on attempting or testing something to see how it performs or if it's suitable. Both idioms suggest an openness to new experiences and a willingness to explore.

In addition, the idiom "give something a whirl" has a similar meaning to "make trial of." It implies giving something a go or trying it out, often with an element of curiosity or excitement. By using this idiom, it adds a sense of playfulness and enthusiasm to the act of trying something new.

Make sure to trial the new software.

Another related idiom is "put to the test." This phrase emphasizes the act of subjecting something to examination or evaluation. Just like "make trial of," it implies a deliberate effort to assess the effectiveness or quality of something. This idiom is often used when discussing the evaluation of skills, abilities, or products.

Lastly, the idiom "put it to" can also be related to "make trial of." When someone says "put it to," they mean to test or assess something. The emphasis is on applying scrutiny or evaluation to determine the value or effectiveness of the subject at hand. In essence, it is another way to express the act of making a trial or experiment.

Considered a formal and somewhat antiquated expression, "make trial of" is more commonly encountered in literature, formal writing, or discussions involving intellectual or analytical pursuits. It is less likely to be used in everyday conversation or informal settings, where simpler alternatives like "try" or "test" would typically be employed.

Importantly, "make trial of" can also symbolize a metaphorical or introspective process of self-exploration and personal growth. It can be interpreted as a call to actively engage with challenges, opportunities, or new experiences in order to expand one's horizons, gain knowledge, or broaden their perspective.

The idiom "make trial of" holds a certain degree of elegance and sophistication, resonating with those who appreciate linguistic richness and historical depth. Its inclusion in literature and formal contexts contributes to its enduring relevance, reflecting both the lasting significance of the concept it conveys and the timeless beauty of language itself.

The idiom "make trial of" captures the essence of deliberate, proactive endeavor and the pursuit of knowledge or experience. Its historical origins, formal usage, and metaphorical implications enhance our understanding of this idiom's depth and complexity. By embracing the opportunity to make trial of, individuals can embark on a journey of personal growth and intellectual exploration while appreciating the inherent beauty of language and its ability to convey profound ideas.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom *make trial of* can be used in a sentence:

  1. I decided to make trial of a new workout routine to see if it would help improve my fitness.
  2. Before buying a new car, it is important to make trial of a few different models to determine which one suits your needs best.
  3. In order to find the perfect recipe for chocolate chip cookies, I made trial of several different variations.

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