small try

USAGE SUMMARY

"small try" is not a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
Instead, you can use "give it a try" or "have a go" to express the same idea. For example: "I'm not sure if I can do this, but I'll give it a try."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

All producers, large or small, try to move up the market.

The New York Times

If that's still too small, try the A. filipendulina called Gold Plate, which can reach five feet.

The New York Times

If that doesn't make you feel small, try sitting in one of those chair-and-a-halfs with the overstuffed arms; then let's talk.

The New Yorker

The heartbeat of the conference, however, remains the showcase performances, at which an array of performers large and small try to make connections with presenters large and small for the pure and simple purpose of trying to show their work to more people (and maybe make a buck or two, of course).

The New York Times

Start small, try everything, and then look at the data.

TechCrunch

Whether this number is big or small – try to make smart choices for a healthy life.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

His small, tried bark* came speeding into port.

Stanford University

We tried to write small, tried to find what's epic in the small".

The New York Times - Arts

There are plenty of firms both large and small trying to take on Google in any number of ways.

The Economist

Right now it is thinking big and small, trying to figure out how to split the difference, and hoping we will keep watching.

The New York Times

Small tried holding open houses in Boston and on the West Coast.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context to determine if a synonym like "modest attempt" or "minor effort" more accurately conveys your intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "small try" as it can sound unnatural. Rephrase the sentence to incorporate a verb like "make" or "give", such as "make a small attempt" or "give it a try".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small try" functions as a noun phrase, where "small" modifies the noun "try". However, it's not a standard or idiomatic construction. Ludwig AI indicates that is not a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

32%

News & Media

56%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "small try" appears in a variety of contexts, including News & Media and Wiki sources, it is generally considered grammatically incorrect. Ludwig AI confirms this assessment. Alternatives such as "modest attempt", "minor effort", or "give it a try" are recommended for clearer and more accurate communication. It is best to avoid using the phrase "small try".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

small-scale attempt

Highlights the limited scale of resources or effort involved.

quick try

Focuses on the speed and brevity of the attempt.

modest attempt

Emphasizes the limited scope or scale of the effort.

minor effort

Highlights the reduced intensity or significance of the undertaking.

brief endeavor

Focuses on the short duration or temporary nature of the attempt.

first shot

Similar to "initial stab," but may suggest a slightly higher level of confidence or expectation.

preliminary attempt

Suggests an initial or preparatory effort, often before a more substantial one.

initial stab

Indicates a first attempt, often implying uncertainty or a lack of experience.

limited trial

Stresses the restricted nature or scope of the experiment or test.

token effort

Implies a minimal or symbolic attempt, often without real commitment.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "small try"?

Instead of "small try", you could use phrases like "modest attempt", "minor effort", or "brief endeavor" depending on the specific context.

Is "small try" grammatically correct?

While understandable, "small try" is not considered grammatically correct in standard English. It's better to use phrases like "make a small attempt" or "give it a try".

How can I use "make a small attempt" in a sentence?

You can use "make a small attempt" in sentences like: "They decided to "make a small attempt" to fix the problem" or "She wanted to "make a small attempt" at painting".

What's the difference between "small try" and "give it a try"?

"Small try" is an awkward phrasing that is generally considered incorrect. "Give it a try" is a common and grammatically correct idiom meaning to attempt something.