a spirited try

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a spirited try" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an enthusiastic or energetic attempt at something, often in a positive or encouraging context. Example: "Even though they didn't win the game, the team made a spirited try and showed great determination."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The Gophers did, however, make a spirited try.

The New York Times - Sports

The Sri Lankan sevens rugby team delight the crowd with a spirited try after they conceded the first 50 points in their pool match with Australia.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Despite a spirited effort from Wales, Elodie Poublan scored a late fourth try to give France a bonus-point victory.

BBC

Several years ago Boutros Boutros-Ghali, the former United Nations secretary general who now heads Francophonie, a spirited group trying to promote (or save) French worldwide, came back from a conference in Hanoi a little gloomy about the future of French outside France and French-speaking Africa.

The New York Times

Company!" Revived, we spend a spirited hour trying to our best to chat up (but not pester) customers.

Huffington Post

Elvis wondered, what would an old woman want with him -- a spirited teenager still trying to decipher girls, who relaxes with video games and rap music, who likes to toss down a few beers with the guys?

The New York Times

But also, many a spirited player gets smashed trying too hard.

The New York Times - Style

For an especially spirited white, try the Philippe Bornard Savagnin.

The New York Times - Food

Jordan Crane's try sparked a spirited fightback and the boot of Owen Williams helped to take the former trophy winners come close to an upset until their charge was halted by a yellow card for Thomas Waldrom when they tailed only 19-16.

Independent

To their credit they did muster a spirited response, scoring three converted tries in the space of 13 minutes to be within just two scores.

The Guardian - Sport

Buy from Amazon.comIN 1492, the same year that Christopher Columbus crossed the Atlantic, a Benedictine abbot named Trithemius, living in western Germany, wrote a spirited defence of scribes who tried to impress God's word most firmly on their minds by copying out texts by hand.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a spirited try" to describe an attempt that is not only energetic but also shows enthusiasm and a positive attitude, even if the outcome is uncertain. It's especially effective when highlighting effort in sports or competitive contexts.

Common error

While "a spirited try" is suitable for many situations, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "a determined effort" or "a vigorous attempt" in those cases.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a spirited try" is to act as a noun phrase where "spirited" modifies the noun "try", describing the nature of the attempt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sport

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a spirited try" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase in English, as validated by Ludwig AI. It denotes an enthusiastic and energetic attempt, frequently observed in news and sports contexts. While not overly formal, it lends a positive tone to descriptions of effort. Related phrases include "an energetic attempt" and "a vigorous effort". When using "a spirited try", focus on highlighting the positive energy behind the attempt and consider the formality of your writing to ensure appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an energetic attempt

Emphasizes the energy and dynamism of the effort.

a vigorous effort

Highlights the strength and intensity of the attempt.

a spirited endeavor

Similar in meaning, but "endeavor" suggests a more prolonged and complex undertaking.

a determined effort

Focuses on the resolution and persistence behind the attempt.

an enthusiastic endeavor

Stresses the positive and keen interest in the attempt.

a zealous undertaking

Indicates a fervent and passionate approach to the task.

a valiant effort

Suggests courage and bravery in the attempt, particularly in the face of difficulty.

a game attempt

Implies willingness and enthusiasm, especially in a challenging situation.

a hearty effort

Highlights the sincerity and genuineness of the attempt.

a bold attempt

Emphasizes the courage and daring nature of the attempt.

FAQs

How can I use "a spirited try" in a sentence?

You can use "a spirited try" to describe an energetic and enthusiastic attempt at something, such as "The team made "a spirited try" to win the game, but ultimately fell short".

What are some alternatives to "a spirited try"?

Some alternatives to "a spirited try" include "an energetic attempt", "a vigorous effort", or "a determined effort", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a spirited try" appropriate for formal writing?

While "a spirited try" is generally acceptable, it may be more suitable for informal or semi-formal contexts. In highly formal writing, consider using alternatives like "a determined effort" for a more professional tone.

What does "spirited" mean in the context of "a spirited try"?

In the context of "a spirited try", "spirited" means showing energy, enthusiasm, and courage. It implies that the attempt was made with a positive and determined attitude.