probieren
to taste
To eat or drink a small amount of something in order to test its flavor.
EXAMPLE
Möchtest du mal von der Suppe probieren?
Would you like to taste some of the soup?
probieren
to try
Checking...
Loading your saved state.
Meanings
probieren
to try / test
To try out or test something in order to find out whether it works, fits, or is pleasing.
EXAMPLE
Ich muss erst probieren, ob der Schlüssel passt.
I first have to test whether the key fits.
probieren
to try on
To put on a piece of clothing in order to see whether it is the right size and looks good.
EXAMPLE
Ich gehe in die Kabine, um die Jacke zu probieren.
I'm going to the fitting room to try on the jacket.
probieren
to try
To attempt to do something whose success is uncertain.
EXAMPLE
Ich probiere, das Problem allein zu lösen, aber vielleicht brauche ich Hilfe.
I'm trying to solve the problem on my own, but maybe I'll need help.
Usage tips
Word family
The verb 'probieren' (to try) is closely related to the noun 'die Probe', which means 'test', 'sample', or 'tasting sample'. This connection to the idea of testing helps you understand all the meanings of the verb.
EXAMPLE
Kann ich eine Probe von diesem Käse haben?
Can I have a sample of this cheese?
Sentence structure with 'ob'
When you want to test whether a certain condition is true, the structure 'probieren, ob ...' (to try/test whether ...) is very common. It is followed by a subordinate clause with the verb at the end.
EXAMPLE
Ich probiere mal, ob das WLAN hier funktioniert.
I'll just test whether the Wi-Fi works here.
Sentence structure with infinitive
When you try to carry out an action, use the construction 'probieren, etwas zu tun' (to try to do something). After the comma comes 'zu' with the infinitive of the second verb.
EXAMPLE
Er probiert, das Fenster zu öffnen.
He is trying to open the window.
Context clue: food
When the object of 'probieren' (to try) is a food or drink, the verb always means 'to taste' or 'to sample'.
EXAMPLE
Probier mal den Wein, er ist ausgezeichnet!
Taste the wine—it’s excellent!
Context clue: clothing
In connection with clothing, shoes, or accessories, 'probieren' (to try) always means 'anprobieren' (to try on). The typical place for this is a fitting room.
EXAMPLE
Kann ich diese Hose in einer anderen Größe probieren?
Can I try these pants on in another size?
Compare with
probieren vs kosten
to cost / taste
Both verbs can describe taking a small amount to test the taste. „Kosten“ is specialized for this kind of taste test, while „probieren“ is the more general word for it. Both fit in this situation, but „kosten“ emphasizes the taste test more strongly.
probieren
Die Köchin probiert die Soße, bevor sie sie serviert.
The cook tastes the sauce before serving it.
kosten
Die Köchin kostet die Soße, bevor sie sie serviert.
The cook tastes the sauce before serving it.
In real life
Loading video examples...