What does the phrasal verb “shoot for” mean?

What are the definitions of “shoot for”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Have as a goal.

  I'm SHOOTING FOR nothing less than the presidency.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “shoot for”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb shoot for is to aim or strive for a specific goal or target. It means that you are trying to achieve something, often something ambitious or challenging.

What are the different verb forms of “shoot for”?

Root Verb	shoot for
Third Person Singular Present	shoots for
Present Participle	shooting for
Simple Past	shot for
Past Participle	shot for

Example

I always shoot for the highest grades in my classes.

Example

She shoots for excellence in everything she does.

Example

He is shooting for a promotion at work.

Example

Yesterday, they shot for a new sales record.

Example

The team had shot for the championship, but they fell short.

What kind of phrasal verb is “shoot for”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“shoot for” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

We shoot for the stars.

Example

She always shoots for the best.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“shoot for” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

We shoot for the stars.

Example

She always shoots for the best.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “shoot for”?

Shoot for the moon

Aim for a very high or ambitious goal, even if it seems impossible or difficult to achieve.

Example

Don't be afraid to shoot for the moon; you might be surprised by what you can accomplish.

Shoot for the stars

Similar to 'shoot for the moon,' it means to aim for a very high or ambitious goal.

Example

Always shoot for the stars and never settle for less.

Shoot for a specific target

Aim for a specific goal or objective, often in a competitive context.

Example

The team is shooting for a spot in the playoffs this season.

Good things to know

Does “shoot for” have an informal or formal tone?

Shoot for is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and casual contexts. However, it can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context. For instance, when discussing personal or professional goals, it can have a more formal tone.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “shoot for”?

Synonyms

• pursue
• target
• attempt
• aim for
• strive for
• aspire to
• reach for
• go for
• try for

Antonyms

• ignore
• avoid
• neglect
• abandon
• quit
• disregard
• overlook
• give up