long shot

[lawng shot, long] / ˈlɔŋ ˌʃɒt, ˈlɒŋ /

NOUN

unlikely winner

Synonyms

STRONGEST

fluke

WEAK

chance hit hundred-to-one shot little chance long odds lucky shot no chance off-chance one in a million outside chance poor bed slim chance small chance

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

That could allow its current investors to start cashing out even if the refinery never gets built — a milestone many energy industry insiders still view as a long shot.

From Salon • Jun. 11, 2026

How long of a financial leash should parents extend to their children to pursue a long shot?

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

“My favorite long shot is ‘Wonder Man,’ Marvel’s love letter to Hollywood dreams and dreamers,” says Tracy Brown.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

It was a long shot in the courtroom.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

“Northwestern would be a long shot, but a shot. Don’t let him apply to Chicago. He’ll get rejected and discouraged. Believe me, he hasn’t got a chance.”

From "Geeks: How Two Lost Boys Rode the Internet Out of Idaho" by Jon Katz

long shot

Example Sentences

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