informal 5K

Have a go

🇬🇧 UK //hæv ə ɡəʊ// 🇺🇸 US //hæv ə ɡoʊ//

Meaning of Have a go

To attempt or try something.

In simple words: Try something

Have a go in a sentence

• You should **have a go** at painting; it’s really fun!
• I decided to **have a go** at rock climbing this weekend.
• Don't worry if you fail; just **have a go** and see what happens.
• She encouraged him to **have a go** at public speaking.
• They told me to **have a go** at the game before judging it.

How to use Have a go

Used in casual conversations when encouraging someone to try an activity. Less formal than 'attempt'.

Grammar pattern

have a go + at + noun/verb-ing

Memory hint

Think of a person having a go at a basketball hoop, trying to score.

Related words

Collocations with Have a go

• have a go at something
• have a go at doing something
• let's have a go
• give it a go
• have a go together

Synonyms for Have a go

• try
• attempt
• give it a shot
• have a shot
• experiment

Common mistakes with Have a go

• Using 'have a go' without 'at' incorrectly.
• Confusing it with 'have a try', which is similar but less common.
• Incorrect verb forms after 'go', e.g., saying 'have a go to swim'.

Frequently asked questions about Have a go

What does Have a go mean?

Try something

What is the definition of Have a go?

To attempt or try something.

How do you use Have a go in a sentence?

You should **have a go** at painting; it’s really fun!

Can you give another example of Have a go?

I decided to **have a go** at rock climbing this weekend.

What are synonyms for Have a go?

Common alternatives include try, attempt, give it a shot, have a shot, experiment.

What words go with Have a go?

It commonly pairs with have a go at something, have a go at doing something, let's have a go, give it a go, have a go together.

What are common mistakes when using Have a go?

Using 'have a go' without 'at' incorrectly. Confusing it with 'have a try', which is similar but less common. Incorrect verb forms after 'go', e.g., saying 'have a go to swim'.

How do you pronounce Have a go?

US: //hæv ə ɡoʊ//, UK: //hæv ə ɡəʊ//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Have a go formal or informal?

"Have a go" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Have a go?

Used in casual conversations when encouraging someone to try an activity. Less formal than 'attempt'.