have a go

USAGE SUMMARY

"have a go" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to encourage someone to make an effort or attempt something. For example, "Just have a go, you never know what might happen!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Let's have a go.

The Guardian - Arts

Have a go.

The Guardian

Always have a go.

The Guardian

Some entrepreneurs want to have a go.

The Economist

But have a go just to check.

Independent

We have to have a go.

Independent

Then Labour could have a go.

The Economist

It seems miserly to have a go.

The Guardian - Music

Let someone else have a go!

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Do you have a go-to model?

BBC

Do you have a go-to breakfast?

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have a go" to encourage someone to try something new or challenging, especially when the outcome is uncertain. It conveys a sense of optimism and willingness to experiment.

Common error

Avoid using "have a go" in very formal or serious contexts where a more precise or professional term might be more appropriate. The phrase carries a casual, encouraging tone that may not suit all situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have a go" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase, primarily used to encourage or suggest that someone attempt something. Ludwig's examples highlight its use in various contexts, from offering encouragement to try a new skill to prompting action in a specific situation. The phrase implies a sense of trying without the pressure of guaranteed success.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Lifestyle

12%

Sports

5%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

2%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have a go" is a versatile and common idiomatic phrase used to encourage someone to attempt something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. It is primarily used in informal settings, as evidenced by its frequent appearance in news and media sources. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, it might not be suitable for highly formal or academic writing. For more formal situations, alternatives like "make an attempt" or "undertake an attempt" may be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give it a shot

Replaces "have a go" with a more informal expression indicating an attempt.

give it a try

Similar to "give it a shot", this phrase is a common substitute for attempting something.

make an attempt

A more formal way of saying "have a go", emphasizing the action of trying.

take a stab at it

Implies an attempt, often when the outcome is uncertain.

try your hand at

Suggests trying a skill or activity for the first time.

take a crack at it

Similar to "take a stab at it", suggesting an informal attempt.

venture to try

Suggests a bold or risky attempt.

give it a whirl

Indicates trying something, often in a lighthearted manner.

make an effort

Focuses on the exertion of energy to accomplish something.

undertake an attempt

A more formal and deliberate way to express making an attempt.

FAQs

What does "have a go" mean?

"Have a go" means to make an attempt or try something. It's often used to encourage someone to try something even if they're not sure they'll succeed.

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

You can use alternatives like "give it a try", "give it a shot", or "make an attempt" depending on the context.

Is "have a go" formal or informal?

"Have a go" is generally considered to be an informal phrase. It's best suited for casual conversations and less formal writing.

How do you use "have a go" in a sentence?

You can use "have a go" by saying something like, "I've never tried that before, but I'm willing to "have a go"" or "Why don't you "have a go" at fixing it yourself?"