Have a go

phrasal verb

To try to do something, especially when you are not sure you can do it.

If no one else wants to sing, I will have a go.
Visual representation of "have a go" - To try to do something, especially when you are not sure you can do it.

Often appears as...

  • have a go at singing
  • have a go at cooking

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

phrasal verb

To criticize or say unkind things to someone.

Why are you always having a go at me?
Visual representation of "have a go" - To criticize or say unkind things to someone.

Often appears as...

  • have a go at me
  • have a go at him

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial

phrasal verb

To attack someone, especially physically.

Red had a go at you? Why would he do that?
Visual representation of "have a go" - To attack someone, especially physically

Often appears as...

  • have a go at him
  • have a go at her

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial

phrasal verb

To try to do something, especially when you are not sure you can do it.

If no one else wants to sing, I will have a go.
Visual representation of "have a go" - To try to do something, especially when you are not sure you can do it.

Often appears as...

  • have a go at singing
  • have a go at cooking

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial

phrasal verb

To criticize or say unkind things to someone.

Why are you always having a go at me?
Visual representation of "have a go" - To criticize or say unkind things to someone.

Often appears as...

  • have a go at me
  • have a go at him

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial

phrasal verb

To attack someone, especially physically.

Red had a go at you? Why would he do that?
Visual representation of "have a go" - To attack someone, especially physically

Often appears as...

  • have a go at him
  • have a go at her

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "have a go"
LampPro Tip 1/3

First Attempt

Used when someone tries something for the first time, often informally.

Illustration for First Attempt
I've never driven a manual car, but I'll have a go.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Encouragement

Often used to encourage someone to try without fear of failure.

Illustration for Encouragement
Don't worry about being perfect, just have a go at it.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Casual Participation

Suggests a laid-back or casual attempt, not too serious or committed.

Illustration for Casual Participation
I'm not a pro, but I'll have a go at playing the guitar at the party.
LampPro Tip 1/3

First Attempt

Used when someone tries something for the first time, often informally.

Illustration for First Attempt
I've never driven a manual car, but I'll have a go.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Encouragement

Often used to encourage someone to try without fear of failure.

Illustration for Encouragement
Don't worry about being perfect, just have a go at it.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Casual Participation

Suggests a laid-back or casual attempt, not too serious or committed.

Illustration for Casual Participation
I'm not a pro, but I'll have a go at playing the guitar at the party.
LampPro Tip 1/3

First Attempt

Used when someone tries something for the first time, often informally.

Illustration for First Attempt
I've never driven a manual car, but I'll have a go.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Encouragement

Often used to encourage someone to try without fear of failure.

Illustration for Encouragement
Don't worry about being perfect, just have a go at it.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Casual Participation

Suggests a laid-back or casual attempt, not too serious or committed.

Illustration for Casual Participation
I'm not a pro, but I'll have a go at playing the guitar at the party.
Visual representation of the word "Have a go"

Never forget "Have a go"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top