Word for something difficult or nearly impossible to achieve


What is a word which means something difficult or close to impossible to achieve? For example,



A ten-percent growth rate is a __: it is certainly possible on paper, but very difficult to accomplish.



I can think of a castle in the air or an ideal prospect, but I would love to have a simple one-word substitute.



Answer



A pipe dream may be what you're looking for; possible, but impossible for all practical purposes.



A plan, desire, or idea that will not likely work; a near impossibility.


"I think that his plan to become a professional athlete is a pipe dream and that he should stay in school."



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