make a stab at

Idioms  

1. Try to do something, as in I don't know the answer but I'll make a stab at it. This expression derives from stab in the sense of “a vigorous thrust.” [Late 1800s] Also see make a pass at, def. 2.

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Example Sentences

Steven Rogers, a St. Louis University political science professor, took a national survey in 2018 and asked people to name their state representative — or at least make a stab at it.

From Washington Post • Apr. 24, 2023

Teasdale had been struggling to make a stab at a solo career as a self-consciously kooky singer-pianist.

From BBC • Jan. 4, 2022

It’s not feasible for everyone to fix their own wounds from childhood before becoming a parent, but I encourage you to make a stab at it, if at all possible.

From Slate • Dec. 17, 2020

In the meantime, however, allow me to make a stab at offering the most preliminary of answers.

From Salon • Oct. 25, 2020

"I'll make a stab at it, Mr. Dowd," says I. And of course I did, though Old Hickory aint such an easy listener.

From Torchy As A Pa by Ford, Sewell

Related Words

• dare
• operate