try

change tack

to start using a different method for dealing with a situation, especially in the way that you communicate. I've been very pleasant with them so far but if they don't cooperate, I may have to change tack. Instead of always asking him what he wants, why don't you try a different tack and tell him what you want?

See also: change, tack

If at first you don't succeed, (try, try, and try again).

something that you say in order to tell someone they must keep trying in order to achieve something. My novel has been rejected by three publishers already. Still, if at first you don't succeed ...

See also: don't, first

try something for size (British & Australian, American & Australian)

to test something or to think about an idea in order to decide whether it works or whether you can use it. Try that for size. It's the new software programme I've been working on. The government is still trying some ideas on for size before committing itself to action.

See also: size

try your hand at something

to try doing something for the first time. I might try my hand at a bit of Indian cooking.

See also: hand

try it on (British & Australian)

to behave badly or to try to deceive people, especially in order to make them do something for you. He's not really ill, he's just trying it on. (often in continuous tenses) I'm not giving her any money. If she tries it on with me I'll just refuse. (sometimes + with)

try your luck

to try to achieve something although you know that you might not succeed. She had always wanted to act and, in 1959, came to London to try her luck on the stage.

See also: luck

try your wings (American)

to try to do something that you have recently learned to do. She's just qualified and is looking for a chance to try her wings as a design consultant.

See also: wing

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try something (on) for size

to test something so you can form an opinion about it. I don't think everyone would be happy working here, but you should try it on for size and see if it's right for you.

Etymology: based on the literal meaning of try on something(= put on clothes to see if they fit and look good)

See also: size

try your hand at something

to attempt to do something. Goodwin worked as a journalist, and he also tried his hand at writing fiction for a time.

See also: hand

try your luck

to attempt something that may or may not succeed. Hundreds of fishermen had shown up early at the lake to try their luck.

See also: luck

try on something

to put on clothes to see how they look or fit. Try on those shoes. It's silly to buy something that expensive without trying it on.

try out (for something)

to compete for something. Jim tried out for the school play.

Usage notes: usually said about competing to play on a team or perform in a show

try something out on someone

to get someone's opinion about something. I've got some new jokes I'd like to try out on you.

try the patience of someone

to cause someone to become extremely annoyed. The judge told the lawyer that he was trying the patience of the court with his delaying tactics.

See also: patience