a shot in the dark — an attempt to guess something when you have no information or knowledge about it
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: an attempt to guess something when you have no information or knowledge about it
Pronunciation (IPA): /ə ʃɑːt ɪn ðə dɑːrk/
Example Sentences
- My answer on the final question was just a shot in the dark - I had no clue!
- It's a shot in the dark, but maybe she likes pineapple pizza.
- Asking my cat for investment advice would be a shot in the dark.
a shot in the dark
NOUN[/ə ʃɑːt ɪn ðə dɑːrk/]
an attempt to guess something when you have no information or knowledge about it
With no clues left, the detective took a shot in the dark and guessed the suspect's hideout.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase originated in 19th-century American English as a metaphorical expression derived from the literal image of firing a gun in darkness without being able to see the target. It came to describe any attempt or guess made without clear information or visibility of the outcome.
Breakdown
shot (an attempt or try) + in the dark (in obscurity or without clear sight). The idiom combines these elements to convey an action taken blindly or without adequate information.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My answer on the final question was just a shot in the dark - I had no clue!”
“It's a shot in the dark, but maybe she likes pineapple pizza.”
“Asking my cat for investment advice would be a shot in the dark.”
“Without any data, our market prediction is just a shot in the dark.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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