(solved) The Tories’ stab at boosting English rights is reckless and cynical

[tahasozgen]

Hi There;
I can not understand a sentence in an article in Economist. I kindly remind you that my intention is not starting a political discussion, only learning English.

Here is the source:
http://www.economist.com/news/brita...ts-reckless-and-cynical-manhandling-britannia

The Tories’ stab at boosting English rights is reckless and cynical

words:
Tory: conservative party in UK, headed by David Cameron
stab: If someone stabs you, they push a knife or sharp object into your body.
boost: If one thing boosts another, it causes to increase improve or more successfull.
reckless: not care about danger or the effect their behaviour will have on other people.
cynical: acting selfishly.

Are the entries below true? Thanks in advance.
1- English rights are boosting.
2- The tories stab the action 1.
3- Action 2 is reckless and cynical.

 

[Roman55]

Re: The Tories’ stab at boosting English rights is reckless and cynical

The problem is with 'stab at'. Stab here is a noun, not a verb.

To make / take a stab at something means to try or attempt something.

"The Tories’ attempt at boosting English rights is reckless and cynical."

Edit: cross-posted with Piscean