the third time is the charm
idiom
US
—used to say that two efforts at something have already failed but perhaps the third will be successful
Examples of the third time is the charm in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Meanwhile, prosecutors are hoping that the third time is the charm for the unresolved rape charge, which could reportedly proceed to yet another trial.
—
Jennifer Zhan, Vulture, 12 June 2025
After two divorces during her time on The Real Housewives of New York City, de Lesseps is primed to meet her next great love, hoping the third time is the charm.
—Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 25 Mar. 2025
Lucid Motors hopes that the third time is the charm.
—Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 12 May 2024
If the third time is the charm, prepare to be charmed when Thursday’s CPI report for September is released at 8:30 am ET.
—Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN, 11 Oct. 2023
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Jennifer Zhan, Vulture, 12 June 2025
After two divorces during her time on The Real Housewives of New York City, de Lesseps is primed to meet her next great love, hoping the third time is the charm.
—Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 25 Mar. 2025
Lucid Motors hopes that the third time is the charm.
—Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 12 May 2024
If the third time is the charm, prepare to be charmed when Thursday’s CPI report for September is released at 8:30 am ET.
—Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN, 11 Oct. 2023
Cite this Entry
“The third time is the charm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/the%20third%20time%20is%20the%20charm. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share