have a go

To try doing something, especially something you have not done before.

• Can I have a go?
• We had a go at making bread.
• She has never skied, but she wants to have a go.

How to use it: have a go at something/doing something (Let me have a go at fixing it.)

Similar words: try, give it a try, make an attempt

Common phrases: have a go, have a go yourself

To speak angrily to someone about something they have done.

• Please do not have a go at me.
• She had a go at her brother for losing the keys.
• Why does he always have a go at the staff?

How to use it: have a go at someone for something/doing something (My boss had a go at me for being late.)

Similar words: tell off, criticize, scold

Opposites: praise

Common phrases: have a go, have a go again

To attack someone or start a fight with them.

• He tried to have a go at me.
• Two men had a go at the driver outside the club.
• Did he have a go at you with his fists?

How to use it: have a go at someone (A drunk man had a go at the guard.)

Similar words: attack, assault

Common phrases: have a go, have a go first