Here's a breakdown of the word:
* Nag-: This is a prefix that indicates an action is in progress or being done.
* Tangka: This is the root word meaning "attempt" or "try."
So, "nagtatangka" literally translates to "trying" or "attempting" something. It can be used in many contexts, such as:
* Nagtatangka siyang magluto ng cake. (He is trying to bake a cake.)
* Nagtatangka siyang makatakas. (He is trying to escape.)
* Nagtatangka akong maunawaan ang problema. (I am trying to understand the problem.)
It's important to note that "nagtatangka" implies that the action is ongoing or has not been successful yet. It's not the same as "nagagawa" (doing) or "nagtagumpay" (succeeded).