Third Time’s a Charm: Meaning and Definitions
- “Third time’s a charm” is an idiom that suggests that the third attempt at doing something will likely succeed after two failures.
- It often implies a sense of optimism or persistence in the face of repeated failures.
- This phrase conveys that success is often achieved after multiple attempts.
- It might also suggest that lessons learned from previous failures contribute to eventual success.
- Furthermore, it reflects the idea that one should not give up after initial failures.
Third Time’s a Charm Synonyms
- Third time lucky
- The third time pays for all
- Third time’s the one
Example Sentences
- He failed his driving test twice, but passed on the third try. As they say, third time’s a charm.
- Despite two unsuccessful attempts to bake the cake, she decided to try again, hoping that the third time’s a charm.
- They lost two football matches in a row, but won the third. Truly, the third time’s a charm.
- She believed in the saying that third time’s a charm and did not lose hope after two job rejections.
- The first two negotiations failed, but the third time’s a charm and they finally reached an agreement.
The Origins and Etymology of Third Time’s a Charm
The phrase “third time’s a charm” is thought to originate from old English law where a person who survived three attempts at hanging would be set free.
This was often unlikely, as the law was intended to ensure a person’s guilt was undeniable before execution.
You can read more about it on Wiktionary.
“Third Time’s a Charm” in Literature
In J.K. Rowling’s ‘Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban’, the phrase is slightly altered when Hermione says, “The saying is actually ‘Third time lucky.'” While the actual phrase “third time’s a charm” isn’t used, the sentiment is the same.
