Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
by any stretch of the imagination
idiom
/baɪ ˈɛni strɛtʃ ʌv ðə ɪˌmædʒɪˈneɪʃən/
Definition
Under any circumstances; to any degree of possibility.
Examples
- This situation is not acceptable by any stretch of the imagination.
- By any stretch of the imagination, he wasn’t the best candidate for the job.
- The film is not a masterpiece by any stretch of the imagination, but it has its moments.
Meaning
This phrase is used to emphasize that something is not true or possible at all, no matter how one might try to imagine it otherwise.
Synonyms
- in no way
- under no circumstances
- not at all
