Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

something is like shooting fish in a barrel

idiomatic expression

ˈsʌmθɪŋ ɪz laɪk ˈʃuːtɪŋ fɪʃ ɪn ə ˈbærəl

Definition

This phrase refers to a situation that is very easy to accomplish or where success is almost guaranteed.

Examples

Winning that game was like shooting fish in a barrel; the other team didn’t stand a chance.
Getting the project approved was like shooting fish in a barrel since all the stakeholders were in agreement.

Meaning

If something is described as being like shooting fish in a barrel, it means that it is extremely easy to do, often because the conditions make it too simple to fail.