give something a try: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘give something a try’ mean?

"Give something a try" means to attempt or test something with the hope of achieving a desired outcome.

Idiom Explorer

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The idiom "give something a go" is similar to "give something a try" in that it also encourages individuals to take action and experiment with something new. When someone says, "give something a go," they are suggesting that others give it a shot or attempt to do something. This idiom conveys a sense of encouraging others to step outside of their comfort zone and try something unfamiliar, just like "give something a try". It emphasizes the importance of taking action and actively engaging in the process, rather than passively observing or dismissing it without consideration. By giving something a go, individuals are given the opportunity to learn, grow, and potentially succeed, regardless of the outcome.

I will try to sample a new recipe.

Another related idiom is "give something a whirl," which also shares similarities with "give something a try." When someone says, "give something a whirl," they are suggesting that others give it a try or attempt to do something, just like the previous idioms. The word "whirl" in this idiom adds a sense of excitement and adventure, as if one is spinning into a new experience or endeavor. It implies a willingness to embrace the unknown and take risks, similar to "give something a try." By giving something a whirl, individuals are encouraged to approach new challenges and opportunities with enthusiasm and an open mind, ready to learn and grow from the experience.

Lastly, we have the idiom "give it one's best shot," which also aligns with the idea of "giving something a try." When someone says, "give it one's best shot," they are encouraging others to do their best and put forth their utmost effort in trying to accomplish something. This idiom implies a level of commitment and determination to give something a try, regardless of the outcome. It emphasizes the importance of giving it one's all and not holding back, similar to "give something a try." By giving it one's best shot, individuals are motivated to push beyond their limits and strive for success, even in the face of uncertainty or challenges.

The idiom "give something a try" is a commonly used phrase that encourages individuals to take risks, explore new experiences, and actively engage in the process. It is similar to the idioms "give something a go," "give something a whirl," and "give it one's best shot," which all emphasize the importance of trying something new, regardless of the outcome. By embracing these idioms, individuals are encouraged to step outside of their comfort zone, broaden their perspectives, and ultimately grow and evolve as individuals.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "give something a try" can be used in a sentence:

  • I think you should give painting a try, you might discover a new talent.
  • Why don't you give this new recipe a try and see if you like it?
  • I wasn't sure if I would like yoga, but I decided to give it a try anyway.

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