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

See Examples For:

make a stab at

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

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

Or at least make a stab at it?

From Washington Times ● Oct. 1, 2019

If he doesn't know, at least he will make a stab at it.

From In Pastures New by Ade, George

Related Words

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