hit-or-miss

American  

[hit-er-mis] / ˈhɪt ərˈmɪs /

adjective

1. careless; inattentive; haphazard.

   The professor criticized the hit-or-miss quality of our research.

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hit or miss Idioms  

1. Haphazardly, at random. For example, She took dozens of photos, hit or miss, hoping that some would be good. [c. 1600]

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Etymology

Origin of hit-or-miss

First recorded in 1600–10

Example Sentences

There are efforts afoot to standardize protocols for clots, so the chances of landing a proper diagnosis and quick treatment aren’t so hit-or-miss.

From The Wall Street Journal

Teachers were supposed to have special training, as any special-ed teacher would, but it seemed hit-or-miss.

From Los Angeles Times

The plot's busy, the visual effects hit-or-miss and its villains are neither potent nor memorable.

From Salon

The Niners have been a hit-or-miss team the past two decades.

From Seattle Times

NFL drafts can be hit-or-miss, but getting it right often pays immediate dividends.

From Washington Times