[Idiom] NOT BY A LONG SHOT. - Discover Phrases for Being Far from a Goal!

far from achieving

The phrase 'Not by a long shot' is a way of saying that something is far from being true or achieved. It originated from shooting terminology, where a 'long shot' has a low probability of hitting the target. In conversation, it's a succinct way to express significant doubt or to state that someone is still far from reaching a goal or conclusion. For instance, if someone thinks they can win a game but they're far behind, you might say, 'You haven't won yet, not by a long shot.'

Example Sentences

1. Finishing in first place isn’t possible, not by a long shot.

   Finishing in first place is not possible under any circumstances.

2. They might win this game, but making it to the finals? Not by a long shot.

   They might win this game, but reaching the finals is not achievable.

3. She did well on the exam but getting the highest score was not by a long shot.

   Although she did well on the exam, getting the highest score was not possible.