three tries

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "three tries" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the number of attempts someone has to accomplish a task or goal. Example: "After three tries, I finally managed to solve the puzzle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Three tries followed.

The Guardian - Sport

Three tries would flow from this.

The Guardian - Sport

Brett Hodgson converted all three tries.

The Guardian - Sport

O.K., so it took him three tries to get out.

The New York Times

So he came up after two or three tries.

The New York Times

After three years and three tries, he won benefits.

The New York Times

It took three tries to find a camera that worked.

The New York Times

Give it Richardson, your horse, for three tries".

The New York Times

All three tries by Australia were gift-wrapped by Wales.

The Guardian - Sport

By the time Cudmore returned, Ireland had scored three tries.

The Guardian - Sport

It took two or three tries to receive the check.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about attempts, consider the context to choose the most appropriate synonym. "Three attempts" might be better in a formal setting, while "three goes" can work in an informal context.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase in highly formal or technical writing where more precise language may be required. Overusing colloquial synonyms like "goes" can diminish the impact of your writing. Consider the audience and select words accordingly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "three tries" functions primarily as a noun phrase indicating a specific quantity of attempts or opportunities. It is often used to describe a situation where someone is given a limited number of chances to succeed. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sport

35%

General

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "three tries" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote having three attempts at something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for various contexts, with news and media being the most common. While generally neutral in tone, remember to consider your audience when choosing between "three tries" and more formal synonyms like ""three attempts"". Avoid overuse in highly formal or technical writing to maintain clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

three attempts

Replaces "tries" with a more formal synonym, "attempts".

three chances

Substitutes "tries" with "chances", focusing on the opportunity aspect.

three attempts made

Adds "made" to emphasize the action of attempting.

three opportunities

A more formal substitute, emphasizing the availability of opportunities.

three efforts

Replaces "tries" with "efforts", highlighting the exertion of energy.

three goes

Uses a more informal term, "goes", for attempts.

three shots

Replaces "tries" with "shots", implying an opportunity to act.

three bids

Uses "bids" to suggest attempts at achieving something specific.

triple attempt

Uses an adjective to describe the attempt

three stabs

More informal and suggests a less precise attempt.

FAQs

What does "three tries" mean?

The phrase "three tries" refers to having three attempts or opportunities to accomplish something. It implies that someone is given three chances to succeed at a task or goal.

How can I use "three tries" in a sentence?

You can use "three tries" in a sentence like this: "It took him "three tries" to finally start the car" or "Jumpers are given "three tries" at each height".

What can I say instead of "three tries"?

You can use alternatives like "three attempts", "three chances", or "three efforts" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "three try" instead of "three tries"?

No, it is not correct. The correct phrase is "three tries" because "tries" is plural, indicating multiple attempts. "Three try" would be grammatically incorrect.