verb HSK 4
Traditional 試用
to try out · to test · trial period · probation
Meaning
试用 means to use something on a trial basis to see if it works well or is suitable. It's commonly used in employment contexts for probationary periods, and also for testing products, software, or services before committing to purchase or long-term use.
Usage
In workplace contexts, 试用期 (trial period) is the standard term for probationary employment. For products, 试用 suggests testing something temporarily. The word can be used as both a verb ('to try out') and as a modifier in compounds like 试用版 (trial version) or 试用装 (sample size). It's neutral in register and widely used in both formal business contexts and everyday conversation.
Examples
- 01这个软件可以免费试用三十天。.This software can be tried free for thirty days.
- 02她现在还在试用期，要三个月后才能转正。, .She's still in her probation period and won't become a regular employee until after three months.
Characters
Common collocations
- 试用期trial period, probation period
- 试用版trial version
- 试用装sample size, trial pack
- 免费试用free trial
Antonyms
Origin
Compound of 试 (to try/test) and 用 (to use), literally meaning 'try-use' or 'test by using'.