How Do You Spell SHOO-IN?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈuːˈɪn] (IPA)

The spelling of the term "shoo-in" can be easily explained using IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced /ˈʃu ˌɪn/ and refers to someone or something that is certain to win. The origins of the term are unclear, but some suggest it comes from the horse racing industry where a horse that is a "shoo-in" is one that is expected to win without any effort. The spelling of the word may seem unusual, but it's simply a result of the word's pronunciation.

SHOO-IN Meaning and Definition

  1. A "shoo-in" is a colloquial expression used to describe a person or entity that is virtually guaranteed to win or achieve success in a particular competition, endeavor, or situation. It refers to a contestant, candidate, or team that has such an overwhelming advantage or superiority that victory or success seems assured or inevitable.

    The term is derived from the verb "shoo," which means to drive away or dismiss by making a gesture or sound. In the context of a "shoo-in," it implies that the victory or success of the individual or group is so certain that all other competitors or possibilities are literally "shooed away" or dismissed as irrelevant.

    A "shoo-in" can typically occur when the dominant competitor possesses exceptional skills, experience, or resources that greatly surpass any of their rivals. It often implies a lack of serious competition or viable alternatives, as the outcome seems predetermined. However, it should be noted that a "shoo-in" is not always a favorable or universally agreed-upon prediction, and there may still be differing opinions about the final outcome.

    Overall, a "shoo-in" is a term used to describe a situation where success or victory is considered highly probable due to a significant advantage or overpowering factors that make the final result seem practically certain.

Common Misspellings for SHOO-IN

Etymology of SHOO-IN

The word "shoo-in" originated in the United States in the late 19th century, specifically in relation to horseracing. It comes from the verb "shoo", which means to make a person or an animal move by making a shooing sound or gesture, as if urging them forward or away. In horseracing, a "shoo-in" referred to a horse that was certain to win a race, as if it needed only a bit of encouragement to reach the finish line. Over time, the term expanded to include any person or thing that is virtually assured of success or victory, beyond any doubt or competition.

Idioms with the word SHOO-IN

  • be a shoo-in The idiom "be a shoo-in" means that a person or team is highly likely to win or be successful in a competition or endeavor. It suggests that the outcome is almost certain, often due to a clear advantage or overwhelming favoritism.
  • shoo-in A "shoo-in" is an individual or team that is considered a certain winner or definite choice for something, usually due to their superior skills or overwhelming advantages.

Similar spelling words for SHOO-IN

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