let him try

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "let him try" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to suggest allowing someone the opportunity to attempt something, often implying that the outcome is uncertain. Example: "If he believes he can solve the problem, let him try; he might surprise us."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Let him try".

The New Yorker

"Just let him try," he said.

The New Yorker

Let him try: it won't happen".

The Guardian - Sport

Roddenberry had to beg MGM to let him try again.

Independent

Mr. Simon let him try anything, and relied on him.

The New York Times

"We can't let him try to influence the direction of the company".

The New Yorker

Overcoming resistance from old-timers, he persuaded his boss to let him try something new.

The Economist

You just have to try and get out there and let him try and catch you".

The Guardian - Sport

Just not comfortable enough to let him try to maneuver through every ninth.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

He talked the justice into letting him try to cash a check at the town bank The bank president said they didn't cash checks for strangers.

The New Yorker

On the previous single to center, the Tigers third-base coach Gene Lamont held Infante at third instead of letting him try to score with one out.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context to determine if a more formal alternative, such as "allow him to attempt", would be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "let him try" in highly formal documents or professional correspondence where a more sophisticated phrase like "permit him to attempt" would be better suited.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "let him try" primarily functions as a directive, giving permission or encouragement for someone to attempt an action. As Ludwig AI explains, it suggests allowing someone the opportunity to attempt something, often implying that the outcome is uncertain.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "let him try" is a common and acceptable expression used to give permission or encouragement for someone to attempt something. As per Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound. While versatile, it's generally neutral in tone and may require a more formal alternative in specific professional or academic settings. Remember to consider the context and audience when deciding whether to use "let him try" or a more refined option such as "allow him to attempt". The phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

allow him to attempt

Replaces "let" with "allow" and "try" with the more formal "attempt".

give him a chance to try

Emphasizes providing an opportunity or possibility for someone to try.

permit him to try

Uses the more formal "permit" instead of "let".

authorize him to try

Suggests a formal approval or authorization for the attempt.

enable him to try

Focuses on providing the means or ability for someone to try.

empower him to try

Highlights giving someone the power or confidence to attempt something.

grant him the opportunity to try

Formally grants someone the chance to attempt something.

see if he can manage

Shifts the focus to the person's ability to succeed.

let him have a go

Uses the informal term "go" for try, more common in British English.

why not let him try

Adds a suggestion or question, implying there's no reason to prevent the attempt.

FAQs

How can I use "let him try" in a sentence?

You can use "let him try" to suggest giving someone the opportunity to attempt something. For example, "If he thinks he can fix it, "let him try"; we have nothing to lose."

What are some alternatives to "let him try"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "allow him to attempt", "give him a chance to try", or "permit him to try".

Is "let him try" formal or informal?

"Let him try" is generally considered informal. In more formal settings, consider using phrases like "allow him to attempt" or "permit him to try".

When is it appropriate to use "let him try"?

It's appropriate to use "let him try" when you want to express permission or encouragement, especially when the outcome is uncertain or when there is an element of doubt or skepticism. It can also be used when the potential risks of failure are low.