a real shot

USAGE SUMMARY

"a real shot" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a chance that is likely to be successful. For example, "I'm taking a real shot at getting a promotion this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

A year later, Oak had a real shot to win a title.

The New York Times - Sports

A real shot.

The New York Times - Sports

But Mr White has a real shot.

The Economist

Murray has a real shot.

The Guardian - Sport

At least 16 have a real shot.

The New York Times - Sports

The difference is, this one's got a real shot.

The New York Times - Tech

She has a real shot, even without her family connections.

The New York Times

"Does it have a real shot this time?

The New York Times

"Google's giving them a real shot at doing that".

The New York Times

"A moderate would have a real shot there".

The New York Times

"I think I have a real shot," Sanders said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a real shot" when you want to express that someone or something has a genuine and credible opportunity for success. It's suitable in contexts where the chance isn't guaranteed, but it's more than just a faint hope.

Common error

Avoid using "a real shot" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can dilute its impact and make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms like "genuine opportunity" or "legitimate chance" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a real shot" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject or object in a sentence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase describes a chance that is likely to be successful. The examples provided by Ludwig show its versatility across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a real shot" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey a credible opportunity for success. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Predominantly found in news and media, the phrase offers a neutral register suitable for various communication styles. While versatile, varying your language with synonyms like "genuine opportunity" or "legitimate chance" can enhance your writing. With an expert rating of 4.6, "a real shot" is a valuable addition to your vocabulary, especially when aiming to express potential and optimism.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a genuine opportunity

This alternative replaces "shot" with "opportunity" providing a more direct and less idiomatic expression of having a chance.

a legitimate chance

This option substitutes "real" with "legitimate", highlighting the validity and fairness of the opportunity.

a serious prospect

This phrase uses "prospect" instead of "shot", emphasizing the potential for future success or achievement.

a viable possibility

This alternative replaces "shot" with "possibility" focusing on the feasibility and potential for something to occur.

a good bet

This option is more informal, suggesting that something is likely to happen or be successful.

a promising outlook

This phrase focuses on the positive expectations and potential suggested by the situation.

a realistic hope

This option emphasizes the tangibility and grounded nature of the expectation.

a fair shake

This is an idiomatic alternative suggesting a just and equitable opportunity.

a fighting chance

This alternative highlights the effort and struggle that may be required to succeed despite the odds.

a distinct advantage

This phrase shifts the focus to having a clear edge or benefit over others.

FAQs

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

You can use "a real shot" to indicate that someone or something has a credible opportunity for success, as in, "The underdog team has "a real shot" at winning the championship this year".

What are some alternatives to saying "a real shot"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "genuine opportunity", "legitimate chance", or "serious prospect".

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

While "a real shot" is widely understood, it may be more appropriate for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using phrases like "genuine opportunity" or "viable possibility" for a more professional tone.

What does it mean when someone says they have "a real shot"?

When someone says they have "a real shot", it means they believe they have a genuine and credible opportunity to succeed in a particular endeavor. It indicates a level of confidence and possibility greater than just a mere hope.