Not Have a Prayer: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Not Have a Prayer” mean?

"Not Have a Prayer" means to have no chance or possibility of success.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He doesn't have a prayer of winning the race.

Example

I knew I didn't have a prayer of passing the exam without studying.

Example

The team didn't have a prayer against the top-ranked opponents

Is “Not Have a Prayer” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Not Have a Prayer” 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 “Not Have a Prayer” effectively in context?

You can use "Not Have a Prayer" to express that someone or something has no chance or possibility of success. It emphasizes the lack of hope or likelihood of a positive outcome. For example, if a friend is attempting a difficult task with little preparation, you might say, 'I'm sorry, but you don't have a prayer of succeeding without more practice.'

• 1. Sports

  The underdog team didn't have a prayer against the top-ranked opponents.

• 2. Academics

  I knew I didn't have a prayer of passing the exam without studying.

• 3. Competition

  He doesn't have a prayer of winning the race.

Similar phrases to “Not Have a Prayer”:

No chance in hell

Absolutely no possibility of success

Example

There's no chance in hell that they'll win the championship.

Fighting a losing battle

Engaging in a struggle or effort that is destined to fail

Example

Trying to convince him to change his mind is like fighting a losing battle.

Dead in the water

Completely without hope or possibility of success

Example

The project is dead in the water due to lack of funding.

Up against a brick wall

Facing an insurmountable obstacle or challenge

Example

They're up against a brick wall trying to negotiate with the stubborn landlord.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Not Have a Prayer” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Not Have a Prayer" is unknown.

Is “Not Have a Prayer” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Not Have a Prayer" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to convey a strong sense of impossibility or hopelessness.

What tone does “Not Have a Prayer” have?

"Not Have a Prayer" conveys a tone of certainty and finality. It suggests that there is absolutely no chance of success or a positive outcome.

Can “Not Have a Prayer” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Not Have a Prayer" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that effectively communicates the idea of having no chance of success. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She knew she didn't have a prayer of getting the promotion.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'No way, he doesn't have a prayer!' to express disbelief in someone's chances of success.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• no hope
• zero chance
• doomed to fail
• destined for defeat
• without a shot
• bound to lose
• certain to fail
• no possibility of success
• no way out
• without a fighting chance

Antonyms

• good chance
• promising opportunity
• likely to succeed
• possible outcome
• positive outlook
• hopeful possibility
• strong likelihood
• favorable odds
• bright future
• realistic chance