good try

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "good try" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to acknowledge someone's effort or attempt, often in a supportive or encouraging manner. Example: "Even though you didn't win the game, it was a good try, and I'm proud of you for participating."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Good try.

The New York Times

Good try, though.

The New York Times

Still, a good try.

The New York Times - Arts

Good attempt, good try.

The New York Times - Sports

But, good try anyway.

The New York Times

Another good try.

The Guardian - Sport

Sorry, good try, famous film.

The Economist

A good try, Mr. Berman.

The New York Times

It was a good try.

The Guardian - Music

"Good try" was mostly what he shouted.

The New Yorker

"Good try," he said – and hung up.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "good try" to acknowledge effort, even when the outcome isn't successful, fostering encouragement and positivity.

Common error

Avoid using "good try" sarcastically, as it can undermine the effort made and damage morale. Ensure your tone is genuinely supportive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "good try" functions primarily as an interjection or expression of encouragement. It acknowledges an attempt or effort, often in situations where the desired outcome was not achieved. Ludwig provides many examples confirming this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

12%

Sport

9%

Less common in

Music

3%

Lifestyle

3%

Tech

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "good try" is a common and generally acceptable phrase used to offer encouragement and acknowledge effort, even when the desired outcome is not achieved. Ludwig AI validates that it is grammatically correct and frequently used. Its register is primarily neutral to informal, and it is most commonly found in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While versatile, it's important to use it sincerely and avoid sarcasm. Consider more formal alternatives in professional settings. Remember that while there are several alternatives phrases, each nuance can adjust its usage to more specific situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nice effort

Replaces "try" with "effort", focusing on the exertion made.

good effort

Synonymous, swapping "try" for "effort" without changing the overall meaning.

well done

Shifts the focus to accomplishment, albeit partial.

commendable attempt

More formal, emphasizes the praiseworthy nature of the effort.

valiant effort

Highlights the courage and determination behind the attempt.

you almost had it

Highlights how close someone was to succeeding.

good job

A more general expression of approval, applicable when a specific task was attempted.

almost there

Emphasizes nearness to achieving a goal.

close but no cigar

Idiomatic expression indicating near success.

better luck next time

Expresses encouragement for future attempts.

FAQs

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

"Good try" is typically used to acknowledge someone's effort, even if they didn't succeed. For example, after a failed attempt, you might say, "Good try, you'll get it next time."

What can I say instead of "good try"?

You can use alternatives like "nice effort", "well done", or "almost there" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "good try" in a formal setting?

While "good try" is generally acceptable, it might be more suitable to use a more formal alternative like "commendable attempt" in formal or professional situations.

When is it best to avoid using "good try"?

Avoid using "good try" when the effort was minimal or insincere. Also, refrain from using it sarcastically, as it can come across as dismissive.