I agree with Ralph but I think you would get a more definitive answer if there was a context. One sounds like the intent to do something - effect change the other sounds like an accusation - as in if you did something, what you dislike wouldn't happen. "I'm going to try to do something, needlework or learn to play the guitar" "I'm bored! My life is awful!" - "well try doing something, you currently do nothing!!" I agree with Ralphy :D but it's contextual.

A very good question Lena. I think I would answer this as follows: • try to do something - the emphasis is on "trying to do" - you are not sure if you can but you should TRY and see if if will work • try doing something - the emphasis here is on doing. The suggestion is that you have done nothing and it doesn't really matter what you do but that you should try DOING something, in fact try DOING anything at all.

Also, "try + -ing" (in this case try doing) is for when we experiment with something or suggest that someone experiment with something. For example, if you are gaining weight, I might say "Why don't you try doing exercise?" Whereas "try+ infinitive" is more for an attempt at something, for example "I am trying to find a job, but it's very difficult."

Almost the same example tell a lazy person do something .