try a bit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try a bit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting someone to make a small effort or attempt something. Example: "If you're unsure about the recipe, just try a bit of the sauce to see if it needs more seasoning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You try a bit.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

'Try a bit, Roger,' he chirped.

The Guardian

American managers should try a bit of democracy too.

The Economist

Perhaps we will try a bit of a new approach.

The Guardian

Far more effective, then, to try a bit of vengeance.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Perhaps I need to try a bit harder".

The Guardian - Sport

Why didn't you try a bit harder this year?

The Guardian - Money

I might try a bit of sex, too.

The Guardian

So the museum has to try a bit harder.

The Guardian - Arts

Patten says he wants to "try a bit of flattery".

The Guardian

My plan is to know a bit more, be a bit more, try a bit harder.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When encouraging someone to "try a bit", be specific about what you want them to attempt, making the task seem less daunting.

Common error

While "try a bit" is versatile, avoid overusing it in formal writing. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "endeavor slightly" or "undertake partially" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try a bit" primarily functions as an imperative, encouraging a small attempt or effort. Ludwig's examples show it used to suggest sampling food, making an effort, or experimenting with something. The function is to prompt action in a gentle way.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Wiki

23%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "try a bit" is a common and generally acceptable phrase used to encourage a small effort or experiment. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's frequently found in news and media, but its informal tone might make it less suitable for formal contexts. When writing, be mindful of your audience and choose more sophisticated alternatives when a professional tone is required. While its intent is to prompt action, remember that context is key, and selecting the right wording will significantly enhance your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give it a shot

Emphasizes attempting something, often when the outcome is uncertain.

make an attempt

A more formal way of suggesting an effort be made.

have a go

Common in British English, suggesting a brief try.

take a stab at it

Implies a less serious or skilled attempt.

make a start

Suggests initiating an action, even if small.

dabble in

To engage in something in a superficial or casual manner.

experiment with

Focuses on trying something new to see the result.

sample a little

Refers to trying a small portion of something, like food.

undertake slightly

A more formal and less common way to suggest a small undertaking.

test the waters

Implies cautiously trying something before fully committing.

FAQs

How can I use "try a bit" in a sentence?

You can use "try a bit" to suggest a small effort or attempt, like "If you're unsure about the recipe, just "try a bit" of the sauce to see if it needs more seasoning".

What are some alternatives to "try a bit"?

Alternatives include "give it a shot", "make an attempt", or "have a go", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it always appropriate to use "try a bit"?

While generally acceptable, "try a bit" might sound too casual in highly formal or professional settings. Consider using more formal alternatives in those situations.

What's the difference between "try a bit" and "try a lot"?

"Try a bit" suggests a small, perhaps experimental effort, while "try a lot" implies a more significant and determined attempt. The choice depends on the intensity of effort you want to convey.