provare

Provare is an Italian verb of the first conjugation (-are) with several related meanings. It can mean to try or attempt to do something, to test or try out a thing, to prove or demonstrate a fact, and to experience a feeling or sensation. It also covers tasting or sampling food and drink, as well as trying on clothing or other items.

Etymology and related forms: Provare derives from the Latin probare, “to test, prove, approve.” The noun prova means a test, trial, or proof, and provato is the past participle meaning proved or tried. The verb participates in common constructions such as provare a fare qualcosa (to try to do something), provare qualcosa (to test or try something), and provare emozioni (to feel emotions).

Main senses and usage: In the sense of attempting, provare is used with a following infinitive, for example provare a telefonare (to try to call), or provare a dormire (to try to sleep). In the testing sense, one can provare un prodotto, provare una teoria, or provare una nuova ricetta to assess or test it, often followed by di or che in more formal contexts. In the sense of proving, si può provare che introduces evidence or argument, though dimostrare is also common; la prova is the noun for proof or test. Intransitive senses include provare paura, gioia, dolore, meaning to experience those emotions.

Conjugation and grammar: Provare is a regular -are verb. Present indicative forms are provo, provi, prova, proviamo, provate, provano. The past participle is provato, used with avere in compound tenses (ho provato). The gerund is provando.

See also: prova, prova scientifica, provare a fare qualcosa, provato.