make a pass at

1. Flirt or make advances to someone, especially of a sexual nature, as in “Men seldom make passes at girls who wear glasses” (Dorothy Parker, Not So Deep As A Well , 1936). [1920s]

2. Also, take a pass at . Make an attempt, as in I've made a pass at opening it but had no luck , or Jake, will you take a pass at changing the oil? This usage employs pass in the sense of a “jab” or “poke.” [ Colloquial ; 1900s] Also see make a stab at .

Related Words

• attack
• seek
• struggle
• work