"hadst a go at" is a colloquial expression that means attempting something or making an effort towards achieving a task. There are various synonyms for this phrase, such as "tried one's hand," "took a stab at," "endeavored," "had a shot," "made an attempt," and "took a crack at." These expressions are often used interchangeably and imply an effort to achieve success, despite possible failure. Giving it a go, having a whack at it, and taking a swing at it, are further synonyms for "hadst a go at," and all suggest an active and enthusiastic attempt to accomplish a task.