What does “Shot in the dark” mean?

"Shot in the dark" means taking a guess or attempting something with very little chance of success.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I took a shot in the dark and applied for the job, even though I didn't meet all the qualifications.

Example

His plan to win the lottery was just a shot in the dark.

Example

I made a shot in the dark and asked her out on a date, not knowing if she would say yes

Is “Shot in the dark” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Shot in the dark” 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 “Shot in the dark” effectively in context?

You can use "Shot in the Dark" when describing a guess or attempt that is unlikely to succeed. It implies taking a chance without much information or certainty. For example, if someone is unsure about the answer to a question, they might say, 'I'll take a shot in the dark and guess.'

1Job Application
I took a shot in the dark and applied for the job, even though I didn't meet all the qualifications.
2Planning
His plan to win the lottery was just a shot in the dark.
3Romantic Pursuit
I made a shot in the dark and asked her out on a date, not knowing if she would say yes.

Similar phrases to “Shot in the dark”:

Throw caution to the wind

To take a risk without considering the potential consequences

Example

He threw caution to the wind and quit his stable job to pursue his passion.

Hail Mary

A desperate or last-ditch effort to achieve a goal

Example

They decided to throw a Hail Mary and launch a new marketing campaign to save the failing business.

Leap of faith

To take a risk or make a decision based on trust or belief, without knowing the outcome

Example

She took a leap of faith and invested all her savings into starting her own business.

Wild guess

An estimate or answer made without much thought or information

Example

I don't know the exact number, but I'll make a wild guess and say around 100.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Shot in the dark” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Shot in the Dark" is unknown.

Is “Shot in the dark” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Shot in the Dark" is a common idiom used in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where they are making a guess or attempt with little chance of success.

What tone does “Shot in the dark” have?

"Shot in the Dark" conveys a tone of uncertainty and risk. It suggests that the outcome is uncertain and that the person is taking a chance without much information or confidence.

Can “Shot in the dark” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Shot in the Dark" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a situation where there is uncertainty or a low probability of success. You can use it in casual conversations with friends or colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or professional writing.

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, 'I'll take a shot in the dark and see if I can guess the answer.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Let's give it a "shot in the dark"!' to suggest trying something with little chance of success.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

guesswork
speculation
long shot
unlikely attempt
random chance

Antonyms

safe bet
informed decision
calculated guess
sure thing
well-planned attempt