Essayer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Literature

• The term is famously associated with the French philosopher and essayist Michel de Montaigne, who popularized the essay as a literary form in the late 16th century.
• Montaigne's essays often explored personal experiences, capturing a sense of trying to understand or express complex thoughts.
• The format they established allows for experimentation with ideas, much like the process of trying different paths in life.

Psychology

• Trying things out is a critical part of learning, facilitating growth and adaptation, especially in childhood development.
• The 'try' approach encourages resilience, teaching that failure can often lead to new insights and better strategies.
• Psychological theories such as 'Behaviorism' emphasize the importance of trial and error in reinforcing learning patterns.

Pop Culture

• In various movies, characters often embark on journeys of self-discovery, which involve trying new things and stepping outside their comfort zones.
• Reality TV shows thrive on the concept of trying, where contestants attempt various challenges, often leading to unexpected outcomes.
• Social media trends frequently encourage individuals to 'try' new challenges, showcasing creativity and experimentation.

Education

• Educational practices highlight the importance of trying and experimenting, promoting a 'growth mindset' where effort is valued over just getting the correct answer.
• Hands-on learning environments foster the act of trying as a cornerstone of student engagement and retention.
• Programs focused on STEM education encourage experimentation, showing students that trial and error is key in science and technology.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the French verb 'essayer', meaning 'to try', which shows its roots in the action of attempting something.
• Historically, the word was used in Middle Ages France to describe attempts at artistic or philosophical explorations.
• The term evolved to encompass a broader range of actions beyond just physical attempts, including intellectual endeavors.

The word 'essayer' originates from the Old French word 'esseier', which means 'to try, test, or attempt'. The root of this word can be traced back to the Latin 'exagere', meaning 'to drive out or force out'. Over time, it evolved in the French language to specifically denote the act of trying or testing something. 'Essayer' has maintained its core meaning throughout history and is widely used in contemporary French. The verb emphasizes the significance of effort and intention behind attempts, reflecting a common human experience of striving toward goals.