How to safely say "we'll try"
How to express effort without turning it into a promised outcome.
"We'll try" can sound like a promise in business emails.
This is especially risky when deadlines or outcomes matter to the client.
Below are examples of safer wording.
What the main problem is
Readers often interpret “we’ll try” as “we will do it”.
Add words like “definitely” and it becomes a guarantee.
Example of risky wording
These phrases still imply certainty.
Risky phrasing examples
- We’ll try to finish tomorrow and will definitely make it.
- We’ll try to make everything perfect.
- We’ll try because you are very important to us.
We’ll try to finish tomorrow and will definitely make it.
Why this can cause problems
Words like “definitely” increase expectations.
The phrase becomes a promise of result.
Why this is risky
- Sounds stronger than an intention.
- No conditions or risks are mentioned.
- Reputational risk if it fails.
How to phrase it more safely
Highlight that this is an intention and add conditions.
If unsure, check the message before sending and remove intensifiers.
We will try to finish tomorrow if no delays occur.
We will do our best to meet expectations.
We plan to resolve this as quickly as possible.
What to double-check before sending
Separate intention from obligation.
Add conditions if external factors exist.
Risky phrasing examples
- Avoid “definitely”, “guarantee”, “perfect”.
- Explain what the outcome depends on.
- State next steps and timing.
Check your message before sending
SendSafe will highlight risks and suggest safer wording.