it's worth a shot — worth trying although unlikely to succeed; worth attempting despite low chances
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: worth trying although unlikely to succeed; worth attempting despite low chances
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪts wɜːrθ ə ʃɑːt/
Example Sentences
- Asking my boss for a raise seems scary, but it's worth a shot.
- I've never cooked before, but making a five-course dinner for my date tonight? It's worth a shot!
- The lottery odds are terrible, but for two dollars, it's worth a shot.
it's worth a shot
NOUN[/ɪts wɜːrθ ə ʃɑːt/]
worth trying although unlikely to succeed; worth attempting despite low chances
He shrugs and says it's worth a shot before pitching his idea to investors.
Don't have a lot, but the chance I got - it's worth a shot!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase evolved from the noun 'shot', which acquired the figurative meaning of 'attempt' or 'opportunity' by analogy with shooting a projectile at a target. The expression emerged in mid-20th century English, drawing on the metaphor of taking one chance or try at achieving a goal, similar to firing an arrow or bullet.
Breakdown
worth (adjective: deserving or justified) + a (indefinite article) + shot (noun: an attempt or chance, from the sense of 'shooting' at a target metaphorically).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Asking my boss for a raise seems scary, but it's worth a shot.”
“I've never cooked before, but making a five-course dinner for my date tonight? It's worth a shot!”
“The lottery odds are terrible, but for two dollars, it's worth a shot.”
“Teaching my grandma to use TikTok might be impossible, but it's worth a shot.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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