try our luck

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "try our luck" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a willingness to take a risk or chance in pursuit of a desired outcome. For example: We were feeling lucky, so we decided to try our luck at the casino.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

We said, "Let's try our luck".

The New Yorker

We figured we had better try our luck back down south at Costa Navarino.

The New York Times - Travel

The fog lifted, so we headed into the back country to try our luck.

The New York Times - Sports

So we head off towards Romania to try our luck getting in there.

The Guardian - Travel

Despite our fear, from the beginning of the shooting we decided to try our luck.

The Guardian

I guess we will will try our luck again," she said.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Still, every Sunday we tried our luck.

The New Yorker

Back to Barrio Norte, we tried our luck at tiny El Ladrillo, meaning "the brick" and referring to the walls and oven here.

The New York Times - Food

It was just too cold for us to rent one of the rowboats, so Kate and I tried our luck fishing from the bank.

The New York Times - Travel

When no one kicked us out for that blatant breach of dog show etiquette, we figured we'd tried our luck enough and went home to our dark, dogless apartments.

Vice

So why not try your luck and enter our competition.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "try our luck", ensure the context clearly indicates that success is not guaranteed and depends on external factors or chance. This adds authenticity to the expression.

Common error

Avoid using "try our luck" in highly formal or professional contexts where a more direct or assertive tone is expected. Opt for phrases that convey confidence and control rather than reliance on chance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "try our luck" functions as an idiomatic expression indicating a decision to attempt something, especially when success depends on chance or circumstances beyond one's control. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "try our luck" is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to express a decision to attempt something where success is not guaranteed and relies on chance or external factors. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from reputable sources, primarily within news and media. While generally suitable for neutral contexts, it's advisable to avoid using it in highly formal settings. Consider alternatives like "take a chance" or "give it a shot" for slight variations in meaning or tone. Remember that using "try our luck" effectively hinges on ensuring the context highlights the uncertain nature of the endeavor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take a chance

This alternative shifts the focus to the risk-taking aspect, emphasizing the uncertainty of the outcome.

try our hand

This highlights the act of attempting something, especially when the person attempting it is inexperienced.

give it a shot

This phrase is more informal, suggesting a casual attempt to achieve something.

take a stab

Similar to "give it a shot", this implies an attempt, often without high expectations.

roll the dice

This phrase emphasizes the element of chance and the potential for a significant outcome.

have a go

This is a British English idiom meaning to make an attempt.

test the waters

This suggests a cautious approach, trying something to see if it will be successful before committing fully.

make an attempt

This is a more formal and direct way of expressing the same idea.

venture forth

This alternative evokes a sense of exploration and bravery in the face of the unknown.

hope for the best

This alternative emphasizes the optimistic anticipation of a favorable outcome, even in the face of uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "try our luck" in a sentence?

You can use "try our luck" to express the act of attempting something with an uncertain outcome. For example, "We didn't have tickets, but we decided to "try our luck" at the door anyway."

What are some alternatives to "try our luck"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "take a chance", "give it a shot", or "test the waters" as alternatives to "try our luck".

Is "try our luck" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "try our luck" is generally more suitable for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using more direct phrases like "make an attempt" or "take the initiative".

What does it mean to "try your luck"?

To "try your luck" means to attempt something, understanding that the outcome is uncertain and dependent on chance or external factors. It implies a willingness to take a risk in the hope of a positive result.