prayer, not a

Idioms  

1. see under not a hope in hell.

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Example Sentences

In a national television interview broadcast on Wednesday morning, the student at the center of the spectacle, Nicholas Sandmann, repeated a claim he made Sunday, that he was trying to defuse the situation, wearing a smile of silent prayer, not a condescending smirk, as he stood nose-to-nose with Omaha tribe elder Nathan Phillips.

From The Guardian

When the Pope closed his remarks with the words, “God bless America,” it was a prayer, not a boast.

From Time

“People were angry with the church leadership for taking in sick people in the church — it’s a place of prayer, not a hospital,” said Mr. Moseray, 42, the assistant pastor, explaining that some members had yet to return.

From New York Times

Not to speak of their mutual profession, there was not a prayer, not a hymn, not a favourite passage of Scripture which had not been exchanged between her and her friend, as lovers exchange their betrothal rings, make presents to each other, and kiss each other's portraits.

From Project Gutenberg

It’s been said that “build it and they will come” is a prayer, not a strategy.

From Inc