Próbujmy

Próbujmy is a Polish verb form meaning let us try. It is the first person plural imperative of the imperfective verb próbować, which translates as to try or to attempt. The form is built from the stem próbuj- plus the ending -my, used to propose a joint action by a group.

Usage and meaning

Próbujmy is used to propose that a group undertakes a task or experiment. It conveys an ongoing or repeated sense of trying rather than a completed action. It is common in everyday speech and in informal to semi-formal writing. Examples include: Próbujmy nowej metody. (Let's try a new method.) Próbujmy to zrobić razem. (Let's try to do this together.)

Relation to other forms

Próbujmy is often compared with spróbujmy, the imperative form of the perfective verb spróbować, which also means to try but frequently carries a nuance of making a single attempt or an initial tasting. Wypróbujmy is a related option meaning let’s try out or test something more thoroughly. The choice among próbujmy, spróbujmy, and wypróbujmy can depend on aspect, nuance, and context.

Etymology

The word derives from próba, meaning a trial or test, with the verbal suffix -ować forming próbować (to try/attempt). The imperative ending -my marks the first person plural form.