informal 5K

Shot in the dark

🇬🇧 UK //ʃɒt ɪn ðə dɑːk// 🇺🇸 US //ʃɑt ɪn ðə dɑrk//

Meaning of Shot in the dark

A guess or attempt made with little hope of success.

In simple words: A guess made without enough information.

Shot in the dark in a sentence

• I took a shot in the dark and guessed her birthday.
• His answer was just a shot in the dark; he had no real evidence.
• I made a shot in the dark about the movie's ending, but I was wrong.
• Finding the right solution felt like a shot in the dark.
• In a shot in the dark, she chose the blue option on the quiz.

How to use Shot in the dark

Use this phrase in casual conversations when discussing uncertain situations or guesses. Avoid in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Imagine someone taking a blind shot at a target in the dark.

Related words

Collocations with Shot in the dark

• take a shot in the dark
• make a shot in the dark
• offer a shot in the dark

Synonyms for Shot in the dark

• wild guess
• stab in the dark
• random guess
• haphazard attempt
• shot in the dark

Common mistakes with Shot in the dark

• Using literally instead of figuratively.
• Confusing with 'long shot' which implies some possibility of success.

Frequently asked questions about Shot in the dark

What does Shot in the dark mean?

A guess made without enough information.

What is the definition of Shot in the dark?

A guess or attempt made with little hope of success.

How do you use Shot in the dark in a sentence?

I took a shot in the dark and guessed her birthday.

Can you give another example of Shot in the dark?

His answer was just a shot in the dark; he had no real evidence.

What are synonyms for Shot in the dark?

Common alternatives include wild guess, stab in the dark, random guess, haphazard attempt, shot in the dark.

What words go with Shot in the dark?

It commonly pairs with take a shot in the dark, make a shot in the dark, offer a shot in the dark.

What are common mistakes when using Shot in the dark?

Using literally instead of figuratively. Confusing with 'long shot' which implies some possibility of success.

How do you pronounce Shot in the dark?

US: //ʃɑt ɪn ðə dɑrk//, UK: //ʃɒt ɪn ðə dɑːk//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Shot in the dark formal or informal?

"Shot in the dark" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Shot in the dark?

Use this phrase in casual conversations when discussing uncertain situations or guesses. Avoid in formal writing.