Pronunciation: [hˈadst ɐ ʃˈɒt] (IPA) 
In modern English, the phrase "hadst a shot" is rarely used, but in Old English it meant "you had a chance". The spelling of "hadst" reflects the archaic second person singular past tense form of the verb "to have". The IPA phonetic transcription for "hadst" would be /hædst/. The pronunciation of the word is similar to "haddst", with a short "a" sound followed by a voiced dental fricative "th" and ending with a "t" sound.
"Hadst a shot" is an archaic phrase derived from Old English, which combines the verb "hadst," the second person singular past tense of "have," with the noun "shot." In its original context, "shot" referred to an attempt or an effort made to achieve a particular outcome. Therefore, the phrase "hadst a shot" may be defined as the act of having made an attempt or an effort at something.
The term "hadst" is the Old English form of "had," which implies possession or past tense action. It signifies a past action or condition belonging to the second person singular subject. Additionally, the word "a" acts as an indefinite article and is often employed to indicate one instance of something.
When combined, "hadst a shot" typically denotes a historical event or situation where someone made an endeavor, engaged in an activity, or found themselves in a position to seize an opportunity. It conveys an individual's past instance of taking action, often with the aim of attaining a particular goal, solving a problem, or affecting a situation in some way.
This archaic phrase "hadst a shot" reminds us of the evolution of language as meanings adapt and transform over time. Although less commonly used in modern English, it serves as a testament to the rich linguistic heritage that provides insight into the developments and changes in the English language.
