Tries some water, say

HASASIP

Think of a phrase that means sampling a drink casually, often used when testing something before committing to it. The answer sounds like a quick, informal action.

This clue plays on the phrase "has a sip," which sounds like the answer when spoken aloud. "Tries" hints at the word "has" (as in "has a go"), while "some water, say" suggests taking a small drink or "sip." The answer is a homophone—it sounds identical to the phrase but is written as one word for the crossword.