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Phrasal verbs "gun for" vs "shoot for"

Differences between gun for and shoot for

Gun for means to pursue something aggressively or to have the intention of defeating someone or achieving something at any cost, while shoot for means to aim for a particular goal or target.

Meanings and Definitions: gun for vs shoot for

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Gun for

  • 1Try to destroy an opponent.

    He's GUNNING FOR his rivals at work.

Shoot for

  • 1Have as a goal.

    I'm SHOOTING FOR nothing less than the presidency.

Usage Examples: gun for, shoot for in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

gun for

Example

She is always gunning for the top position in her class.

Example

He guns for the promotion at work.

shoot for

Example

I always shoot for the highest grades in my classes.

Example

She shoots for excellence in everything she does.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Gun for

go after

To pursue or try to obtain something, often aggressively.

Example

He's going after the promotion with everything he's got.

target

To aim for or direct one's efforts towards a specific goal or objective.

Example

Our company is targeting a younger demographic with our new marketing campaign.

set one's sights on

To have a specific goal or ambition in mind and work towards achieving it.

Example

Ever since she was a child, she's set her sights on becoming a doctor.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shoot for

aim for

To set a specific goal or target and work towards achieving it.

Example

I'm aiming for a promotion at work by the end of the year.

strive for

To make great efforts to achieve a particular goal or objective.

Example

As an athlete, he always strives for excellence in his performance.

work towards

To make progress towards a particular goal or objective through consistent effort and dedication.

Example

We're working towards launching our new product by the end of the quarter.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in gun for vs shoot for: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: gun for or shoot for?

Both gun for and shoot for are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, shoot for is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, including sports, work, and personal goals. Gun for is more specific and often used in competitive or confrontational situations.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of gun for and shoot for

Both gun for and shoot for are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, using them in formal settings may not be appropriate. Instead, it's better to use alternative expressions that convey a more professional tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of gun for and shoot for

The tone of gun for and shoot for can differ based on context. Gun for often carries a negative or aggressive tone, while shoot for has a more positive and optimistic tone.

gun for & shoot for: Synonyms and Antonyms

Gun for

Synonyms

Shoot for

Synonyms

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