Shot in the dark Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A guess or attempt that is made without much information or with little chance of success.
Usage & Nuances
Usually informal; used when you guess or try something with little or no evidence. Common in both spoken and written English. Similar to 'wild guess.' Not literally about shooting or darkness; do not take the phrase literally.
Example Sentences
It was just a shot in the dark, but I guessed the answer correctly.
basic
Choosing this restaurant was a shot in the dark because I had never been here before.
basic
Sending her a message was a shot in the dark, but she replied quickly.
basic
Honestly, my guess was a total shot in the dark—I had no idea what the answer was.
natural
Finding his phone number was a shot in the dark, but somehow I got it right.
natural
I don’t really know the answer—it’s just a shot in the dark.
natural