Phrase guide
Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.
Sound
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noun
A difficult challenge for the person indicated, especially one involving a competitive situation.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: idiomatic
No example sentence was provided for this meaning.
Synonyms: none provided
Antonyms: none provided
noun
A reasonable opportunity to succeed, perform acceptably, or escape harm, especially in a difficult situation.
Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract
Usage: dated, idiomatic
No example sentence was provided for this meaning.
Synonyms: none provided
Antonyms: none provided
History
The idiom likely originates with horse racing, where one can get enjoyment "from watching the race even if one does not win much." Its usage was first recorded in 1874.
Across languages
2 source translations are retained for this English entry.
