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next to impossible

ExpressionLevel B2

Almost impossible, extremely difficult.

Finding a quiet seat on the bus at 8 a.m. is next to impossible.

'Next to' can mean 'almost'. 'Next to impossible' means almost impossible.

Your turn
What is next to impossible in your city?

More expressions

chances areExpression · B1

It is likely that something is true or will happen.

Don't get me wrongExpression · B1

A phrase you say before a 'but' to stop someone from misunderstanding you.

for lack of a better way of putting itExpression · B2

Said when you can't find the perfect words, so you use the closest ones.