trial run

American  

noun

1. a preliminary performance or test of something, as of the operation of a ship or the effectiveness of a play.

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trial run British  

noun

1. a test drive in a vehicle to assess its performance

2. a test or rehearsal of something new or untried to assess its effectiveness

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Etymology

Origin of trial run

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

If those items do well, he said Sweetgreen plans to expand the offerings beyond that trial run in the middle of the year.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 26, 2026

One Palestinian official familiar with the arrangements for the trial run told the BBC around 30 Palestinian staff members had arrived at the Egyptian side of the crossing, ahead of the operational phase.

From BBC • Feb. 2, 2026

The first draw is a trial run for a scheme that the city could extend, the official said, adding that there was an "ecological interest" in reusing burial plots.

From Barron's • Nov. 6, 2025

While racers and their crews flitted about the Tekno tent, Maifield worked quietly from a half-obscured corner, tweaking his car after a trial run.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 7, 2025

I run my hand over my ponytail and I’m glad that Zara made us trial run our wardrobe two weeks ago.

From "Red Flags and Butterflies" by Sheryl Azzam