By no stretch of the imagination
Example: By no stretch of the imagination can this be true.
Definition
"By no stretch of the imagination" is an idiomatic expression used to emphasize that something is not true or possible under any circumstances, even when one tries hard to believe or imagine it. For example, 'By no stretch of the imagination can this be true' means it is absolutely not true.
Etymology
The phrase "by no stretch of the imagination" combines 'stretch,' meaning to extend or expand, with 'imagination,' referring to the mind's ability to form images or ideas. The expression figuratively suggests that even if one tries to extend their imagination to the fullest, the idea remains impossible. It likely emerged in English in the 19th century, capturing the vivid image of pulling one's imagination as far as it can go without reaching the truth.
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"By no stretch of the imagination" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C1) - set 1", containing 130 commonly used expressions.
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