What does “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades” mean?
"Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades" means that being close to achieving something is not enough; it is only considered successful if you actually achieve it.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He almost made it to the finish line, but as they say, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades.
Example
She came close to winning the competition, but as they say, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades.
Example
They were just a few points away from passing the exam, but as they say, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades
Is “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades” effectively in context?
You can use "Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades" to emphasize that being close to achieving something is not enough. It highlights the importance of actually achieving the desired outcome. For example, if a friend is disappointed about coming in second place in a competition, you might say, 'Well, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. You'll get them next time!'
- 1Sports
He almost made it to the finish line, but as they say, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades.
- 2Competition
She came close to winning the competition, but as they say, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades.
- 3Academics
They were just a few points away from passing the exam, but as they say, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades.
Similar phrases to “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades" is unknown.
Is “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades" is a commonly used proverb in everyday conversation. It is often used to remind someone that being close to achieving something is not enough and that actual success requires reaching the goal.
What tone does “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades” have?
"Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades" conveys a tone of determination and resilience. It emphasizes the importance of not settling for being close to success, but rather striving to achieve it.
Can “Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades” be used in informal and formal settings?
This proverb is more commonly used in informal settings, such as casual conversations with friends and family. However, it can also be used in more formal situations to convey the idea that true success requires reaching the desired outcome.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He almost made it, but remember, close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades!' to imply that being close is not enough.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- close but no cigar
- almost doesn't cut it
- near miss
- fall short
- miss the mark
Antonyms
- success is measured by effort, not outcome
- every little bit counts
- close is good enough
