have a go
phrase · casual
To try something.
How Aussies use it
- I've never surfed, but I'll have a go.
- Have a go at the quiz, it's fun.
How to pronounce ‘have a go’
Say it like this: hav uh GOH
‘have a go’ in a conversation
Coach: Do you want to try batting?
Priya: I've never played cricket, but I'll have a go!
Good to know
Australians value people who try, even if they're not good at it yet. 'Give it a go' means the same thing.
Where you'll hear ‘have a go’
You'll hear 'have a go' from coaches, teachers, friends and family, when they encourage someone to try something new. It's a big part of the Aussie attitude that trying matters more than being perfect.
How to reply or use it yourself
If someone says 'Have a go!', they're encouraging you, so you can say 'Okay, I'll give it a try.' Use it to encourage others too: 'Go on, have a go.'
More examples
- The teacher told the shy students to have a go at speaking.
- I had a go at baking bread on the weekend.
- Have a go at the crossword, you might be good at it.
🎧 Recorded with Australian AI voices (Bec and Davo from our Listening Room), so you hear a natural Aussie accent on every device.
A common mistake
'Have a go AT someone' is different: it means criticise or tell someone off.
Saying it more formally
In a formal email, essay or the PTE test, use try / give it a try instead.
Slang is great for chatting with friends and workmates, but keep it out of PTE essays and formal writing.
Fill the gap
Which word goes in the gap?
I've never tried rock climbing, but I'm happy to ___ ___ ___.
Show the answer
have a go
Quick check
What does ‘have a go’ mean?
- Very tired, exhausted.
- A present; a gift.
- To try something.
Show the answer
C. To try something.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'have a go' mean in Australia?
To try something. Australians value people who try, even if they're not good at it yet. 'Give it a go' means the same thing.
Can I say 'have a go' at work?
Yes. 'have a go' is fine in most workplaces, in conversation and casual messages. In formal emails, reports and English tests, use more standard English.
How do you pronounce 'have a go'?
Say it like this: hav uh GOH. Press 'Hear it' on this page to listen.
When do Australians say 'have a go'?
You'll hear 'have a go' from coaches, teachers, friends and family, when they encourage someone to try something new. It's a big part of the Aussie attitude that trying matters more than being perfect.