long shots crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "long shots crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "long shots crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ODDS: Refers to the probability of an event; "long odds" implies a low chance of success, directly linking to 'long shots'.
5 Letters
RISKS: Situations involving exposure to danger or loss; a 'long shot' is inherently a risky endeavor.
7 Letters
GAMBLES: Risky undertakings with uncertain outcomes, often with a low probability of success but high potential reward, akin to 'long shots'.
9 Letters
OUTSIDERS: Individuals, teams, or entities considered unlikely to win or succeed, perfectly embodying the concept of 'long shots'.
12 Letters
SPECULATIONS: Formation of a theory or conjecture without firm evidence, often involving high risk for potential high gain, similar to how 'long shots' are often based on uncertain prospects.
More About "long shots crossword clue"
"Long shots" is a fascinating clue because it taps into both literal and figurative meanings. While literally it could refer to a shot taken from a great distance, in crossword puzzles and common idiom, it almost exclusively refers to something with a very low probability of success. This could be an underdog in a competition, a risky investment, or an unlikely dream.
The challenge for solvers is often in discerning the precise nuance the puzzle setter intends, and then matching that with the available letters from crossing words. Common themes around 'long shots' include risk, chance, improbability, and ventures with high stakes but low odds. This makes it a rich clue for diverse answers, from short synonyms for probability to longer words describing an unlikely contender.
Understanding the idiom is key here. It's not about the physical distance, but about the statistical likelihood. This is why answers like OUTSIDERS or GAMBLES are so fitting, as they directly relate to situations where success is not guaranteed and requires an element of chance or boldness.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Idiom: For clues like "long shots," always think of common idioms and phrases first. Literal interpretations are often less common than figurative ones in crosswords.
- Check Word Length: The number of letters is your most important guide. If you have several possible answers in mind, narrow them down by length.
- Look at Crossings: Don't try to solve a tough clue in isolation. Use the letters provided by crossing words to confirm or eliminate possibilities, especially when dealing with ambiguous clues.
- Think Synonyms & Antonyms: If a direct synonym doesn't come to mind, consider antonyms or related concepts. Sometimes clues are phrased to make you think around the word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'long shots' typically mean in a crossword context?
'Long shots' in crosswords usually refers to something with a low probability of success, a risky venture, or an underdog. This can include individuals, teams, or even ideas that are considered unlikely to succeed but have a high payoff if they do.
Are there common synonyms for 'long shots' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related concepts that appear as answers for 'long shots' include OUTSIDERS, GAMBLES, RISKS, ODDS (as in 'long odds'), and sometimes more specific terms depending on the nuance of the clue. The answer often depends on the specific word length required by the puzzle.
How can I approach clues like 'long shots' if I'm stuck?
When stuck on a clue like 'long shots,' consider the different interpretations: literally 'a shot from far away' (less common for this specific phrase but possible), or more commonly, 'an unlikely success' or 'a risky endeavor'. Think about synonyms for risk, chance, improbability, or underdog. Also, look at crossing letters to narrow down the possibilities by word length.