Translation guide
A 'long shot' refers to something with a low chance of success, but worth trying. In Japanese, this idea is expressed through various phrases and idioms that convey unlikelihood, risk, or a gamble.
Describing an attempt or plan that has a very low probability of success, but is still worth trying.
A straightforward way to say 'the possibility is low'. Can be used in many contexts.
成功する可能性は低いけど、やってみる価値はある。
It's a long shot, but it's worth a try.
Emphasizing the risk or speculative nature of an attempt, like a bet with low odds.
Literally 'a bet' or 'gamble'. Often used in phrases like '大きな賭け' (big gamble) to convey a long shot.
Used in contexts like horse racing or sports betting to describe a competitor with very low odds of winning.
Do not translate 'long shot' literally as '長い射撃' or similar. It will not be understood. Use the phrases above depending on context.
Literally 'thin hope'. A common, slightly casual way to say something is a long shot.
彼が来るのは望み薄だね。
It's a long shot that he'll come.
Means 'unreliable' or 'not to be counted on'. Can be used when a plan or person is a long shot.
彼の助けは当てにならない。
His help is a long shot.
A softer, indirect way to say something is a long shot, meaning 'it might be difficult'.
明日までに終わらせるのは難しいかもしれない。
Finishing by tomorrow is a long shot.
それは大きな賭けだ。
That's a long shot.
An idiom meaning 'sink or swim', 'all or nothing'. Used when taking a chance on something unlikely.
一か八かやってみよう。
Let's give it a shot, even though it's a long shot.
A proverb meaning 'you never know until you try', often used when the outcome is uncertain, like a long shot.
当たるも八卦当たらぬも八卦だ。応募してみよう。
It's a long shot, but you never know. Let's apply.
In betting contexts, '大穴' refers to a dark horse or a long shot with very low odds. Commonly used in horse racing.
あの馬は大穴だ。
That horse is a long shot.
Means 'little chance of winning'. Can be used in any competitive situation.
彼のチームは勝ち目が薄い。
His team is a long shot to win.