gave it another shot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gave it another shot" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to trying something again after a previous attempt, often with the hope of achieving a better outcome. Example: "After failing the exam the first time, I decided to give it another shot and studied harder."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Alfonzo gave it another shot, but this one fell far short of catapulting the Mets anywhere.

The New York Times - Sports

Organizers gave it another shot in 1961, when Baylor defeated Utah State, 24-9, athehe aging Polo Grounds.

The New York Times - Sports

Then, a few years ago during an ill-fated stint running E4's Facebook page – one that ended by mutual consent after I started correcting the grammar of the page's followers – I saw how insanely popular The Big Bang Theory was and gave it another shot, to no avail.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

They just raised more money, at a higher valuation, and gave it another shot.

TechCrunch

"Even if this does not work out and I do not get back in the England team, I will at least end my career knowing I gave it another shot," Pietersen, who is donating his Surrey wages to his charitable foundation,  told the Telegraph.

BBC

But this is Coachella redux and on Friday the guys gave it another shot.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

It's obviously not going to be easy, but SAP has used its cash to buy some companies and give it another shot.

TechCrunch

He wanted to give it another shot.

The New York Times - Sports

"I want to give it another shot.

The New York Times - Sports

But like several others who have tried SpeedDating, she said she would give it another shot.

The New York Times

If you've written off Siri as a cocktail party prop, as I initially did, give it another shot.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gave it another shot" when you want to convey a sense of resilience and determination after a previous setback.

Common error

While "gave it another shot" is widely understood, consider using more formal alternatives like "made another attempt" in academic or professional writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gave it another shot" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the act of repeating an attempt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a common expression used to describe trying something again after a previous attempt.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gave it another shot" is a common phrase used to describe the act of trying something again after a previous attempt. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct. While its usage is generally acceptable across various contexts, it is most frequently found in news and media. For more formal settings, consider alternatives like "made another attempt". It's a handy expression to convey resilience and determination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tried again

A more concise and direct way of saying someone attempted something once more.

made another attempt

A slightly more formal and neutral alternative.

took another stab at it

An informal and slightly humorous alternative.

had another go

A British English idiom with a similar meaning.

revisited the attempt

Implies a more thoughtful and considered second try.

renewed efforts

Focuses on the continuation of effort rather than a specific attempt.

persisted

Highlights the perseverance and determination to continue trying.

didn't give up

Emphasizes the lack of quitting despite previous failures.

persevered

Similar to persisted but carries a slightly more formal tone.

battled on

Suggests a determined struggle to continue despite difficulties.

FAQs

What does "gave it another shot" mean?

The phrase "gave it another shot" means to try something again after a previous attempt, typically with the hope of a better outcome or success.

Is "gave it another shot" formal or informal?

The phrase "gave it another shot" is generally considered informal. In formal contexts, you might prefer alternatives such as "made another attempt" or "tried again".

What can I say instead of "gave it another shot"?

You can use alternatives like "tried again", "made another attempt", or "took another stab at it" depending on the context.

How can I use "gave it another shot" in a sentence?

Here's an example: "After failing the exam the first time, I "gave it another shot" and studied harder."