the act of firing a gun or other weapon, an attempt to hit a target with a projectile, an injection of medicine or vaccine

call the shots, shot in the dark, shot across the bow

give it a shot, long shot, cheap shot

Formal and Informal Expressions of shot

In different contexts, you can replace 'shot' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'attempt, injection' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'go, jab' is a commonplace synonym.

shot: Explore its Definition & Usage

shot Definition

1the act of firing a gun or other weapon
2an attempt to hit a target with a projectile
3an injection of medicine or vaccine

Using shot: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "shot" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
He took a shot at the target and missed.
Example
The police officer fired a warning shot in the air.
Example
I need to get a flu shot before winter.

shot Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for shot

Antonyms for shot

Idioms Using shot

call the shots
to be in charge or make the decisions
Example
The CEO calls the shots at this company.
shot in the dark
a guess or estimate that is not based on any facts or evidence
Example
I don't know the answer, but I'll take a shot in the dark and say it's option B.
shot across the bow
a warning or threat given to someone to stop doing something
Example
The government issued a shot across the bow to the company, warning them to stop their illegal activities.

Phrases with shot

give it a shot
to try something, usually for the first time
Example
I've never played tennis before, but I'll give it a shot.
long shot
a very unlikely chance of success
Example
It's a long shot, but I'm going to apply for the job anyway.
cheap shot
an unfair or unsportsmanlike remark or action
Example
Making fun of someone's appearance is a cheap shot.

Origins of shot

from Old English 'sceotan', meaning 'to shoot'

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Summary: shot in Brief

The term 'shot' [ʃɑt] refers to firing a weapon or attempting to hit a target with a projectile. It can also refer to an injection of medicine or vaccine. Common phrases include 'give it a shot,' meaning to try something new, and 'long shot,' meaning a very unlikely chance of success. Idioms include 'call the shots,' meaning to be in charge, and 'shot in the dark,' meaning a guess without evidence.