“Long Shot”: Meaning, Origin, & Usage of This English Idiom

Ever wondered why some people keep trying even when success seems impossible? That’s the spirit of a “long shot.”

Have you ever heard someone say, “It’s a long shot,” and felt puzzled? This common English idiom captures the essence of unlikely possibilities and hopeful attempts despite slim odds.

While it literally suggests something difficult to achieve, “long shot” also reflects a uniquely human quality: perseverance in the face of uncertainty.

Let’s explore how this expression originated and why it resonates so deeply with English speakers worldwide.

True Meaning of “Long Shot”

At its core, a long shot is any attempt or goal with a low probability of success.

Whether you’re discussing a challenging job application, a sports competition, or simply hoping to find your lost keys in an unlikely place, saying “it’s a long shot” clarifies that success isn’t guaranteed.

For instance, you might say, “I know it’s a long shot, but I’m going to volunteer for that leadership role,” to highlight both your uncertainty and your willingness to try.

Why does this phrase resonate with so many English speakers? Much of it boils down to the human tendency to hope for a positive outcome.

Even when something seems improbable, we find value in describing that faint possibility—and the phrase “long shot” captures that spirit perfectly.

Why “Long Shot” Matters

1. Clear Communication: Using “long shot” properly can help you communicate that a certain venture, event, or outcome is unlikely. It keeps your message succinct without sounding overly pessimistic.
   
   
2. Cultural Insight: Idioms often reflect a culture’s mindset. Understanding them allows you to grasp subtle nuances in conversation, making your interactions smoother.
   
   
3. Building Confidence: Incorporating idioms into your speech can boost your confidence as a learner. When you use them accurately, you’ll likely feel more comfortable engaging in discussions with native speakers.
   
   
4. Professional Benefits: In a business meeting or work environment, calling a project a “long shot” signals you’re aware of the risks but still open to possibilities. It shows realism without crushing hope.

Origins of “Long Shot”

The idiom “long shot” is often traced back to horse racing. In that context, a “long shot” referred to a horse that had low odds of winning the race.

Bettors taking a chance on that horse stood to gain a large payout if the horse managed to win, but the likelihood of that happening was slim.

Some people also connect “long shot” to sports like golf, where hitting a ball across a vast distance into a small hole seems improbable.

Regardless of whether you prefer the horse racing or golf explanation, both capture the same essence: a tough challenge with uncertain odds.

Note: Historically, the horse racing origin is the most cited explanation for this idiom. If you come across alternative explanations, they typically share the core idea of achieving success against significant difficulty.

How to Use “Long Shot” Daily

Even when you understand an idiom, you might still feel hesitant about weaving it into casual or professional dialogue. Here are some straightforward ways to use “long shot” in everyday conversations:

• Job Applications
  “Applying for that position feels like a long shot, but I’ll send my resume anyway.”
  This implies the applicant realizes competition is fierce or certain qualifications are missing, yet they still want to try.

• Sports Talk
  “Winning the championship is a long shot for our team, but we’ll give it everything we have.”
  This indicates awareness of a tough competition but preserves a sense of determination.

• Daily Life Scenarios
  “It’s a long shot, but maybe I’ll find my phone in the park where I dropped it last week.”
  This conveys an admission that the outcome is doubtful, though not impossible.

Golf Analogy: Clearer Meaning

Imagine standing on a golf tee, aiming for a hole that’s barely visible on the horizon. The ball has to travel an impressive distance, and the obstacles—wind, terrain, pressure—are all working against you.

Landing the ball precisely where you want it is unlikely. Yet, if by some rare stroke of skill (or luck) it lands in the hole, you’ve accomplished something extraordinary. That unlikely triumph is the spirit of a long shot.

Similar & Opposite

Exploring related expressions can deepen your grasp of how probability is discussed in English.

Similar Expressions

Opposite Expressions

By recognizing these expressions, you’ll be able to describe varying degrees of certainty in a more dynamic and accurate way.

Real-Life Stories

Achieving Against the Odds

A friend once applied for a role at a company that explicitly required a certain qualification he lacked. Nevertheless, he had a wealth of practical experience. He considered his application a long shot but submitted it anyway:

Cooking Contest Blunder

Some time ago, a colleague decided to enter a neighborhood cooking contest. He was far from a culinary expert, but he thought, “Why not?” and joined:

These anecdotes highlight how the concept of a “long shot” applies to real situations. Taking risks can lead to triumph or comedic mishaps, but either way, it often yields memorable experiences.

Pop Quiz: Check Your Idiom Skills

Takeaways & Practice Tips

Conclusion

The idiom “long shot” goes beyond simply stating that something is difficult. It represents a spirit of possibility, even when logic suggests an uphill battle.

By understanding its core meaning, historical roots, and practical applications, you can confidently incorporate it into your everyday conversations.

Whether you’re discussing a challenging proposal at work or a personal goal that feels distant, acknowledging that it’s a “long shot” reminds everyone that while success may be uncertain, it isn’t out of reach.