not stand an earthly

not stand an earthly

To have no possible or feasible chance (of doing or accomplishing something). A truncated form of "not stand an earthly chance." Primarily heard in UK. He doesn't stand an earthly of winning, but I'm voting for him nonetheless. I knew I wouldn't stand an earthly of getting that promotion if I didn't make myself stand out in the company more.See also: earthly, not, stand

not stand (or have) an earthly

have no chance at all. British informalSee also: earthly, not, stand