# not be able to hit the broad side of a barn

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/not-be-able-to-hit-the-broad-side-of-a-barn
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To have very poor aim, such as while using firearms or in sports.

## Examples

- He cannot hit the broad side of a barn with a basketball.
- The new player tried to score, but he could not hit the broad side of a barn.
- Despite his years of practice, the archer admitted he could not hit the broad side of a barn during the high-pressure tournament.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.