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.
It's a long shot, but it's worth a try.
Literally 'thin hope'. A common, slightly casual way to say something is a long shot.
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.
His help is a long shot.
A softer, indirect way to say something is a long shot, meaning 'it might be difficult'.
Finishing by tomorrow is a long shot.
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.
That's a long shot.
An idiom meaning 'sink or swim', 'all or nothing'. Used when taking a chance on something unlikely.
A proverb meaning 'you never know until you try', often used when the outcome is uncertain, like 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.
Let's give it a shot, even though it's a long shot.
It's a long shot, but you never know. Let's apply.
His team is a long shot to win.