English Idiom – Long Shot
Meaning – Used to describe something that has a very small chance of success, or that is unlikely to happen. This expression is common in the world of gambling, where a long shot is a bet placed on an event with a low probability of occurring.
This phrase likely came about in reference to early naval guns. These guns were very unlikely to hit a target at any distance – hence a long shot became known as something that is unlikely to be successful.
Related Expressions:
- Chase rainbows – Idiom
- Dark horse – Idiom
- Pigs might fly – Idiom
- Pipe dream – Idiom
- Square the circle – Idiom
Usage:
When could you use this idiom?
- A situation where there is a slim chance of achieving the desired outcome.
- If you are discussing plans, goals, or decisions that involve taking a risk.
- You are thinking about placing a bet on a horse in a race that has very long odds – and little chance of winning!
Example:
- “I’m going to try to get a scholarship, even though it’s a long shot.”
In The News:
Discuss:
- Is there an idiom like this in your country?
What is an idiom?
An idiom is a word or phrase that is not taken literally. An idiom is an expression that cannot be understood from the meanings of its individual words, but has a separate meaning of its own.