# take a stab at

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/take-a-stab-at
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To attempt or try.

## Examples

- I do not know the answer, but I will take a stab at it.
- The crossword puzzle was difficult, but she decided to take a stab at the final clue before giving up.
- Although he lacked formal training in the field, he felt confident enough to take a stab at solving the complex mathematical problem that had baffled his colleagues for weeks.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.