prayer

the answer to someone's prayers

someone or something that someone has needed very much for a long time. A new supermarket delivery service was the answer to my prayers.

See also: answer

not have a prayer

to be not at all likely to succeed. She hasn't a prayer of winning the competition. (often + of)

on a wing and a prayer

if you do something on a wing and a prayer, you do it hoping that you will succeed although you are not prepared enough for it. With scarcely any funding and a staff of six, they operate on a wing and a prayer.

See also: wing

---

the answer to your prayers

exactly what is needed or wanted. These new artificial hearts are amazing, but are they the answer to our prayers?

Usage notes: sometimes used in the form the answer to something's prayers: Each new technology has been introduced as the answer to education's prayers.

See also: answer

not have a prayer

to have no chance. With an injured ankle, he doesn't have a prayer of winning the race.

Usage notes: sometimes used without not: Do we have a prayer of convincing him to go?