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Region: General | Usage example: After two failures, the third time's the charm finally worked.

Third time's the charm

Meaning

Third attempt often works.

Usage

Used to encourage persistence.

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.

Superstitious belief in the power of three.

Used in proverbs for centuries.

Related Idioms

Third time lucky

Success on the third attempt.

Air your laundry

Publicly discuss private matters, often causing embarrassment.

Cut corners

To save time, money, or effort by skipping proper steps, often reducing quality or safety.

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.