a trial run

USAGE SUMMARY

"a trial run" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a test or practice session of something before it is officially implemented or used. Example: Before launching the new product, the company conducted a trial run to gather feedback and make any necessary improvements.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a trial run".

The New York Times - Magazine

Think of me as a trial run.

The New York Times

This is something of a trial run.

The New York Times - Arts

It's a trial run for both.

The Guardian - Money

But it's really a trial run.

The Guardian - Music

If you can, try a trial run of the exam.

Columbia University

This "Simon Boccanegra" is in essence a trial run.

The New York Times - Arts

I did a trial run with mixed results.

The New York Times - Tech

It's like a trial run just a few seconds beforehand.

The New York Times

In August 1941, she made a trial run.

The New York Times - Magazine

JPMorgan has at least given the union a trial run.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a trial run" when you want to emphasize the preliminary nature of an activity or test, especially when assessing feasibility or identifying potential issues before a full-scale implementation.

Common error

Avoid using "a trial run" to describe a one-time event or an irreversible decision. This phrase is best suited for situations where adjustments can be made based on the outcome of the test.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a trial run" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an activity performed to test something before full implementation, akin to examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"A trial run" is a common phrase used to describe a preliminary test or practice session. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. Its function is to introduce an activity that evaluates something. Predominantly found in News & Media, Academia, and Science contexts, the phrase maintains a neutral tone suitable for diverse audiences. When writing, remember that a trial run implies the potential for adjustments based on its outcome. Semantically related terms include "dry run", "pilot project", and "preliminary test". By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "a trial run" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dry run

Focuses on the practice aspect without the real consequences.

preliminary test

Highlights the initial and exploratory nature of the test.

practice session

Underscores the preparatory aspect of the activity.

proof of concept

Emphasizes demonstrating the viability of an idea or method.

pilot project

Highlights the experimental and exploratory nature of the endeavor.

beta test

Implies testing by a group of users before public release.

test drive

Analogous to testing a vehicle before purchase, implying evaluation.

test phase

Emphasizes the period of testing and evaluation.

experimental phase

Focuses on experimentation and gathering data for analysis.

feasibility study

Suggests a more formal and in-depth assessment of viability.

FAQs

How can I use "a trial run" in a sentence?

You can use "a trial run" to describe a preliminary test or experiment. For example: "The company conducted "a trial run" of the new software before its official release."

What is an alternative to saying "a trial run"?

Alternatives to "a trial run" include "dry run", "pilot project", or "preliminary test", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "a trial run" and "a test drive"?

"A trial run" generally refers to a broader range of tests or experiments, while "a test drive" is typically used in the context of evaluating vehicles or software. Both terms imply a preliminary evaluation before committing to something.

When is it appropriate to use the term "a trial run"?

It's appropriate to use "a trial run" when describing a test or experiment that is conducted to evaluate the feasibility, effectiveness, or potential problems of a new product, service, or procedure before it is fully implemented. For example when you have a "practice session".