take another shot

USAGE SUMMARY

"take another shot" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in informal writing or speaking contexts, usually with the implication that you are trying something again despite a previous failure, or could potentially fail again. For example: "We tried to fix the broken light switch, but the power still isn't on. I guess we'll just have to take another shot and try again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Forbes

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

He did not take another shot.

The New York Times - Sports

If there's a talented prospect available, Bill Belichick should take another shot.

The New York Times

We are about to take another shot at something that ended in failure five years ago.

The New York Times

Dish, for its part, used the association's announcement on Thursday to take another shot at CBS.

The New York Times

First, when will Congress take another shot at cap and trade?

The New York Times

I don't think he would surprise everyone if he decided to take another shot".

The New York Times

There's no time for relaxing, however, because I have to take another shot at elegant dining.

The New York Times - Style

Miss though, and they would have to take another shot, and keep going until there was one man left.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Mr. Woods took another shot.

The New York Times

Then Robson takes another shot.

The Guardian - Sport

Later still he took another shot at voguing.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take another shot" when you want to convey resilience and determination in the face of a setback.

Common error

Avoid using "take another shot" in situations where failure is unacceptable. The phrase implies a possibility of failure, so it's unsuitable for describing critical, non-repeatable actions or tasks where success is mandatory.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take another shot" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating a repeated attempt, often after a previous failure. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it implies resilience. The examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from sports to business.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

TechCrunch

10%

Forbes

9%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Huffington Post

6%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take another shot" is a common and widely understood idiomatic phrase used to describe the act of trying something again, particularly after an initial setback. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various informal contexts.

Based on the analysis, its primary function is to encourage persistence and convey a sense of renewed effort. While suitable for general communication, it is important to ensure the context doesn't require guaranteed success, as the phrase inherently implies a possibility of failure.

Authoritative sources like The New York Times frequently use this phrase. Alternatives such as ""give it another try"" or "make another attempt" can be used depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give it another try

Emphasizes the act of trying again after a previous attempt, focusing on the effort.

try again

A direct and concise way to express the act of repeating an attempt.

make another attempt

Formal alternative, highlighting the deliberate act of trying once more.

have another go

British English alternative, suggesting another turn or attempt.

take a second chance

Focuses on the opportunity to try again, rather than just the action.

revisit the attempt

Highlights returning to a previous effort, often implying a more thoughtful approach.

try one more time

Stresses the finality of the attempt, implying this is the last chance.

give it a whirl

Informal and lighthearted way to suggest trying something again.

take a different approach

Suggests not just repeating the attempt, but changing the method.

make a renewed effort

Emphasizes the increased energy and focus put into the second attempt.

FAQs

How can I use "take another shot" in a sentence?

You can use "take another shot" to indicate an attempt to do something again, often after a previous failure. For example, "The company decided to "give it another try" and "take another shot" at launching the product next quarter."

What's the difference between "try again" and "take another shot"?

"Try again" is a general term for repeating an attempt. "Take another shot" implies a more deliberate or strategic second attempt, often after learning from the first attempt's shortcomings. For example, "After missing the target, he decided to "adjust his aim" and "take another shot"."

What can I say instead of "take another shot"?

You can use alternatives like ""give it another try"", "make another attempt", or "have another go" depending on the context.

Is "take another shot" appropriate in formal writing?

While "take another shot" is widely understood, it's generally more suitable for informal or conversational contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "make another attempt" or "revisit the attempt" for a more professional tone.