ようとする
To try to do / to be about to do / to attempt to do
Expresses that someone is making an attempt or is on the verge of doing something.
N3
Meaning
To try to do / to be about to do / to attempt to do
Expresses that someone is making an attempt or is on the verge of doing something.
Formation
Verb（volitional form）+ とする
Explanation
「ようとする」 attaches to the volitional form of a verb and expresses:
1️⃣ An attempt
2️⃣ A moment just before an action happens
Key nuance:
Focus is on the moment of effort
Often describes something that is about to happen
Frequently used when the action is interrupted
Can describe internal effort or external observation
Unlike 「ようにする」, this grammar does NOT describe habit or long-term effort.
It describes a specific moment of trying.