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Region: UK | Usage example: After two failed pitches, the third time was lucky.

Third time lucky

Meaning

Success on the third attempt.

Usage

Encouragement when trying again.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

English superstitions about the power of three.

Used since the 1800s in British storytelling.

Related Idioms

Time after time

Repeatedly; consistently.

Time and time again

Repeatedly over and over.

A stitch in time saves nine

Fixing small problems now prevents bigger ones later.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.