DictionarywhirlBrief attempt
noun

whirl

A brief try at something.

She gives pottery a whirl.

Etymology

Give it a whirl applies the image of a quick turn or burst of activity to an attempt. The phrase suggests trying without a long commitment.

More examples

  • He decided to give the recipe a whirl.
  • They gave the new game a whirl.
  • It was worth a whirl.

Forms

whirl

Similar words

try
The ordinary direct equivalent.
attempt
A more formal effort to do something.