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old college try. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
old college try, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
old college try in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
old college try you have here. The definition of the word
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English
Etymology
From the ambitiousness of college athletes. Earliest known use from 1914. Perhaps popularized by a 1917 sermon of the same name by preacher and professional baseball player Billy Sunday (see citations).
Noun
old college try (plural old college tries)
- (informal) A vigorous, committed attempt or effort, often in the context of a nearly hopeless situation where failure is expected.
1929, Munsey's Magazine, volume 96, number 3, page 355:Those who have seen Ruth make the "old college try" understand that some professionals play with a spiritual fervor which is supposed to be the amateur's prerogative.
- 1980, T. E. Kalem, "Happy Hangover" (theatre review of Fifth of July), Time, 17 Nov.:
- Reeve gives his role the old college try—fervent amateurism.
Usage notes
- Often used in the expression give it the old college try.
See also