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Definitions

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.

But there are still big questions for Pakistan; and securing a peace deal is a long shot.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

Until recently, he was considered a long shot in a June Democratic primary with a dozen candidates, including anti-Trump lawyer George Conway and Jack Schlossberg, grandson of John F. Kennedy.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

"It's a long shot and ambitious but the species needs time and space without being constantly walloped by myrtle rust to hopefully express some resistance," Professor Fensham said.

From Science Daily • Mar. 13, 2026

Six months ago, half of the nominated supporting actresses would seem like a long shot in their category.

From Salon • Jan. 23, 2026

Even though it had been a long shot, Mother’s heart still sank at the news.

From "City Spies" by James Ponti