a good go

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'a good go' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used in the phrase "give it a good go" meaning to do one's best at a task or activity. For example: "Let's give this task a good go and see how it turns out!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We'd give it a good go".

Independent

She gave us a good go.

The New York Times - Sports

Lynch mobs are also having a good go of it.

The New York Times

Forest had a good go at messing up the transfer.

The Guardian - Sport

Farron did give it a good go, though.

The Guardian

There were enough candidates out there having a good go.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"And we had a good go towards the end".

The Guardian - Sport

"We will be giving it a good go," said Anderson.

The Guardian - Sport

We need have a good go and see what happens," the 34-year-old said.

Independent

Though Zach Johnson's been giving it a good go today, of course.

The Guardian - Sport

So your leader's been making quite a good go of things.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a good go" when you want to convey the idea of making a substantial effort, even if the outcome is uncertain. It's best suited for situations where the effort is commendable, regardless of success.

Common error

Avoid using "a good go" when the effort was minimal or half-hearted. This phrase implies a genuine and significant attempt.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a good go" is as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb like 'give' or 'have', denoting an attempt or effort. Ludwig shows examples where it features predominantly in expressions of trying or attempting something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a good go" is a common and generally accepted idiom used to describe a significant attempt or effort. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples of its usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While informal, it effectively conveys the idea of trying one's best, making it a valuable expression in English. Remember to use it when you truly mean a substantial effort was made, and be aware of slightly more formal alternatives for professional or academic settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valiant effort

Suggests courage and determination in the face of difficulty.

a determined effort

Highlights the resolve and persistence behind the attempt.

a serious attempt

Implies that the effort was undertaken with earnest intent.

a solid effort

Emphasizes the strength and quality of the attempt.

a spirited try

Focuses on the enthusiasm and energy invested in the attempt.

a noteworthy try

Highlights the significance or importance of the attempt.

a decent attempt

Suggests a reasonable but not necessarily outstanding try.

a sincere undertaking

Implies a genuine and heartfelt commitment to the attempt.

an honest endeavor

Underscores the sincerity and integrity of the attempt.

a bold stab

Emphasizes the daring and adventurous nature of the attempt.

FAQs

What does it mean to "give something a good go"?

To "give something "a good go"" means to try your best or make a serious effort to do something, even if the outcome is not guaranteed.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a good go"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that someone put in considerable effort, regardless of whether they succeeded. For example, "They lost the game, but they gave it "a good go"".

What are some alternative ways to say "give it a good go"?

You could say "give it your best shot", "make a serious effort", or "try your hardest" as alternatives to "give it "a good go"".

Is "a good go" formal or informal?

"A good go" is generally considered informal but acceptable in many contexts, particularly in sports, news, and casual conversation. More formal situations might call for phrases like "a determined effort" or "a concerted attempt".