by a long shot

phrase

Synonyms of by a long shotnext
: by a great deal

Examples of by a long shot in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The White Horse Tavern, which opened in Newport in 1673, predates American independence by a long shot. David Jefferys, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Aug. 2017

Word History

First Known Use

1830, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of by a long shot was in 1830

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“By a long shot.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20a%20long%20shot. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on by a long shot

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!