a proper go

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a proper go" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a serious attempt or effort at something, often implying that the effort is thorough or genuine. Example: "After several failed attempts, I finally decided to give it a proper go and committed to the project fully."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Give the 1975 a proper go, I dare you.

The Guardian - Music

Now we're back in it, we're not going to have a proper go?

The Guardian - Sport

This summer, I hope to book another lesson and make a proper go of it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But the match was a classic in its own right, Scotland giving it a proper go against much-fancied opposition.

The Guardian - Sport

Now, with Jos Buttler out of the side, it is Bairstow's time to get a proper go behind the stumps.

The Guardian - Sport

But it might also encourage media conglomerates to stick at magazines and have a proper go at revamping them for the digital age.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

It may just be a deluxe drive-in movie, but if you enjoy crashing masonry and flailing tentacles, pay to see it on a proper big screen with a proper go-deaf sound system, and be prepared to drop your popcorn.

Independent

He was giving his opponent a proper going over and seemed within a right hand or two from a stoppage.

The Guardian - Sport

That is, if Disney ever gives the film a proper go-ahead: As Variety notes, the studio hasn't even awarded "1952" with a green light.

Huffington Post

If you see a proper mother, go up to her and say: "Taps!" followed by "Miss?

WikiHow

You have made a band and performed so now it's time to be a proper band, Go and play in all places!

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a proper go" when you want to emphasize that a task or activity deserves a serious and dedicated effort. It suggests a commitment to doing something thoroughly and correctly.

Common error

Avoid using "a proper go" in highly formal or academic writing. While generally acceptable, it may sound too informal for certain contexts. In such cases, opt for more formal alternatives like "a serious attempt" or "a determined effort".

Linguistic Context

"A proper go" functions as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb (e.g., give it a proper go, have a proper go). It indicates the act of making a sincere and thorough attempt. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Sports

19%

Lifestyle

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a proper go" signifies a sincere and dedicated effort. Ludwig AI confirms it as grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally acceptable, it's advisable to consider the formality of the writing context and opt for more formal alternatives like "a serious attempt" or "a determined effort" in academic or professional settings. The phrase encourages commitment and thoroughness in any endeavor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a serious attempt

Emphasizes the earnestness and determination behind the effort.

a real effort

Highlights the genuineness and sincerity of the attempt.

a genuine try

Focuses on the honesty and authenticity of the attempt.

a determined effort

Stresses the resolve and persistence involved in the attempt.

a thorough attempt

Highlights the comprehensiveness and meticulousness of the effort.

a full-fledged attempt

Implies a complete and unrestrained effort.

a good shot

Suggests an earnest but potentially risky attempt.

a sincere endeavor

Emphasizes the honest and heartfelt nature of the attempt.

an honest effort

Focuses on the integrity and lack of deception in the attempt.

a committed undertaking

Stresses the dedication and responsibility involved in the attempt.

FAQs

What does the phrase "a proper go" mean?

The phrase "a proper go" means to make a genuine, thorough, and dedicated effort to achieve something. It implies a serious attempt, often after previous attempts or hesitation.

How can I use "a proper go" in a sentence?

You can use "a proper go" to describe an attempt that is serious and dedicated. For example: "After several failed attempts, I decided to give it "a proper go" and committed to the project fully."

What can I say instead of "a proper go"?

You can use alternatives like "a serious attempt", "a real effort", or "a genuine try" depending on the context.

Is "a proper go" formal or informal?

"A proper go" leans towards the informal side. While widely understood, it's best suited for casual conversations, news articles, or less formal writing. In academic or business contexts, consider more formal phrases like "a thorough attempt" or "a determined effort".