German Phrase
Versuch, ruhig zu bleiben.
Meaning
A direct but friendly command meaning ‘Try to stay calm.’ It’s often used when someone is nervous, angry, or in a stressful situation, encouraging them to keep their composure.
When to use
Use this phrase when you want to advise a friend, colleague, or family member to remain calm—e.g., before an exam, during a heated discussion, or in a minor emergency. In formal contexts, switch to the polite form ‘Versuchen Sie, ruhig zu bleiben.’
✦Grammar Breakdown
Versuch,ruhigzubleiben.
Imperative (2nd person singular)
‘Versuch’ is the imperative form of the verb ‘versuchen’ used for ‘you’ (du).
zu‑Infinitive
After ‘versuchen’, the infinitive verb is introduced with ‘zu’, forming ‘zu bleiben’.
Adverb ‘ruhig’
‘Ruhig’ functions as an adverb here, describing how one should stay.
Comma in German Imperatives
A comma separates the imperative verb from the following infinitive clause for clarity.
🗨In Conversation
Ich habe total Angst vor der Präsentation morgen.
I’m really nervous about the presentation tomorrow.
Versuch, ruhig zu bleiben.
Try to stay calm.
✕Common Mistakes
Versuche, ruhig zu bleiben.
‘Versuche’ is the 3rd‑person singular present, not the imperative for ‘du’.
Versuch, ruhig bleiben.
The infinitive must be introduced with ‘zu’ after ‘versuchen’.
Versuch ruhig zu bleiben.
A comma separates the imperative from the infinitive clause in standard German punctuation.
↔Alternatives
Bleib ruhig.
Stay calm.
Versuche, die Ruhe zu bewahren.
Try to keep your calm.
Halte dich ruhig.
Keep yourself calm.
Cultural Tip
German speakers often prefer direct language, especially among peers, so the imperative ‘Versuch, …’ feels natural. In professional or formal settings, use the polite form ‘Versuchen Sie, …’ to avoid sounding too abrupt. Also, remember the comma after the imperative verb; omitting it is a common error that can make the sentence look rushed.