Idiom – Long Shot

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:

• A Senate breakthrough on immigration might still be a long shot

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.