5 ms·
To me, “try to catch me!” feels more formal than “try and catch me!” Which feels kinda playful, but are both saying basically the same thing.
by Waterluvian 1y ago
To me, “try to catch me!” feels more formal than “try and catch me!” Which feels kinda playful, but are both saying basically the same thing.
- munchler 1y agoI think “try and” is used more by children than by adults, which is why it works well in this sort of playful, childlike phrase.
- card_zero 1y agoDifferent sociolinguistic register, innit.
- posix86 1y agoBasically yes, but I do hear nuance, idk if it's right - "try and" feels more daring, like "I think you can't", while "try to" feels more neutral, just a command.
- Waterluvian 1y agoYeah like if a kid runs off and says “try to catch me!” It’s a “c’mon and play!” But “try and catch me” is a challenge, a dare, a taunt even.
- segmondy 1y agoYou are right on the nuance. "try and catch me" for me, means I'm going to give it my all not to be caught and I believe I will not be caught. Good luck, try and catch me. "Try to catch me" means I think you might have some chance.