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Not by a long chalk

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phrasePlay

To not be finished with something; there's still more to come or the situation can change.

We haven't lost the game, not by a long chalk. There's still time for us to score.
Often appears as...
not finished by a long chalk
not over by a long chalk
Usage tips
LampInformal
LampIdiomatic
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British OriginPlay
This phrase is particularly British, so it's more commonly understood and used in the UK. SlideShe hasn't finished writing her novel, not by a long chalk, but she's making progress.
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Optimistic UndertonePlay
The phrase often conveys optimism, suggesting that despite current appearances, there's hope for a different outcome. SlideWe're not out of the recession, not by a long chalk, but there are positive signs.
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Informal ExpressionPlay
Use this phrase in informal situations. It might be too casual for formal writing or speeches. SlideI'm not done with my project, not by a long chalk - there's loads to do!