long shot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "long shot" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to express the idea that something is unlikely to happen. For example, "Winning the lottery is a long shot, but it's still worth buying a ticket."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A long shot?

Forbes

He is a long shot.

The Economist

Love is a long shot.

The New York Times - Magazine

Maybe it's a long shot.

The New York Times

It is a long shot.

The Economist

But that's a long shot.

The New York Times

Perhaps it's a long shot.

The New Yorker

That is a long shot.

The Economist

Salad, by a long shot.

University of California, Berkeley

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

This is a long-shot candidacy.

The New York Times

It's a long-shot case.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "long shot" in writing, consider contrasting it with the effort or resources being invested, highlighting the gamble involved.

Common error

Avoid using "long shot" to describe situations that are impossible. It implies a degree of possibility, however small, that should be present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long shot" functions primarily as a noun phrase, describing something with a low probability of success. Ludwig shows its prevalent use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "long shot" is a noun phrase used to describe something with a low probability of success. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely used. It's most common in news and media but also appears in academia. When using "long shot", remember that it implies a degree of possibility, however small. Alternatives include "slim chance" or "improbable scenario". Avoid using it when describing situations that are absolutely impossible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outside bet

Mirrors the original meaning, using 'bet' to relate to probability.

slim chance

Emphasizes the small likelihood of success.

outside chance

Indicates that success is possible but not probable.

remote possibility

Highlights the distance from being a realistic outcome.

improbable scenario

Focuses on the unlikelihood of the situation.

minimal prospect

Stresses the limited outlook for success.

dubious prospect

Implies uncertainty and skepticism about the outcome.

against all odds

Success is possible but only with very difficult chances.

not a snowball's chance in hell

An idiomatic expression indicating virtually no chance.

pipe dream

Suggests a goal that is unrealistic or fanciful.

FAQs

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

You can use "long shot" to describe a situation with a low probability of success. For example, "Getting that promotion is a "long shot", but I'm going to try my best".

What is a synonym for "long shot"?

A synonym for "long shot" is "slim chance". Both phrases describe something that is unlikely to happen.

When is it appropriate to use the term "long shot"?

It's appropriate to use "long shot" when you want to convey that something is improbable but not entirely impossible. It's suitable for scenarios involving risk and low odds.

What's the difference between "long shot" and "impossible"?

"Long shot" implies a small chance of success, whereas "impossible" suggests there is no chance of success whatsoever. A "long shot" still has some potential, however unlikely.