a lucky shot

USAGE SUMMARY

"a lucky shot" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a successful or fortuitous attempt at something, often in a sporting or competitive context. Example: The team was struggling to score, but their captain managed to make a lucky shot in the final seconds of the game, securing their victory.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Did Horry make a lucky shot?

The New York Times - Sports

It was a lucky shot, really".

The New York Times - Sports

Later, Brodeur brushed it off as a lucky shot.

The New York Times - Sports

But Chalmers called it "just a lucky shot".

The New York Times - Sports

Coming from any other player, it would have been deemed a lucky shot.

The New York Times - Sports

"I just tried to hit the net and it was a lucky shot; it went through".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Ever since we first saw the great gray ships lying in the Hudson, they have represented for us the ultimate military gamble-an unthinkable total of men & machinery to risk on a single lucky shot.

The New Yorker

Catesby and Percy were dropped by a single lucky shot.

Wikipedia

Catesby and Percy were reportedly killed by a single lucky shot.

Wikipedia

Catesby and Percy were reportedly both dropped by a single lucky shot, while standing near the door.

Wikipedia

According to Daily Dot staff writer Marisa Kabas, who was at the Garden at the time, the fan hit the lucky shot after missing a preceding lay-up, free throw and 3-pointer.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a lucky shot" to describe a successful action where chance played a significant role, especially in sports or competitive situations.

Common error

Avoid using "a lucky shot" to diminish genuine skill or effort. Reserve it for situations where luck was undeniably a major factor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a lucky shot" functions as a noun phrase, where "lucky" is an adjective modifying the noun "shot". According to Ludwig AI, it is used to describe an instance where success is achieved more through chance than skill. This is supported by Ludwig examples where it is used to downplay personal ability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

12%

The New Yorker

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedia

1%

The Guardian

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a lucky shot" is a common phrase used to describe a successful attempt where chance played a significant role. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and informal settings. While often used to express humility or acknowledge the role of chance, it is crucial to avoid using it in ways that diminish genuine skill or effort. Alternatives such as "a stroke of luck" or "a fluke" may be appropriate depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. Ludwig's examples and analysis provide a comprehensive understanding of its usage and implications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a stroke of luck

Emphasizes the role of luck in the event's success.

a fortunate strike

Emphasizes the positive outcome and good fortune associated with the event.

an accidental hit

Highlights that the success was not intentional.

a chance occurrence

Highlights the accidental or unplanned nature of the event.

a long shot that paid off

Emphasizes the improbability of the event succeeding.

a happy accident

Focuses on the positive and unintended nature of the event.

an unexpected success

Focuses on the surprise element and positive result.

a fortuitous event

Highlights the fortunate circumstances surrounding the event.

a fluke

Implies that the event was unlikely and not due to skill.

a serendipitous event

Suggests a fortunate and unplanned discovery or occurrence.

FAQs

How can I use "a lucky shot" in a sentence?

You can use "a lucky shot" to describe an unexpected success, particularly in sports or games of chance. For example: "The player won the game with "a lucky shot" at the buzzer."

What's a good alternative to "a lucky shot"?

Alternatives include "a stroke of luck", "a fluke", or "a fortunate strike depending on the context".

Is it appropriate to use "a lucky shot" in formal writing?

While "a lucky shot" is widely understood, it leans towards informal language. In formal writing, consider more precise and professional terms depending on the specific context.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "a lucky shot"?

Avoid using "a lucky shot" when you want to emphasize skill or expertise. It's best used when chance or good fortune significantly contributed to the outcome.