How Do You Spell SHOT AT?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈɒt at] (IPA)

The phrase "shot at" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ʃɒt æt/. The first syllable, "shot", contains the consonant sound /ʃ/, which is like the "sh" sound in "ship". The second syllable, "at", is pronounced with the vowel sound /æ/, as in "cat". Together, the phrase "shot at" refers to someone attempting to hit a target with a firearm. Proper spelling of this phrase is important in written communication, such as in news reports or legal documents.

SHOT AT Meaning and Definition

  1. "Shot at" is a phrasal verb that can have different meanings depending on the context. Generally, it refers to an attempt or an effort made towards achieving a particular goal or outcome. It implies the act of trying or endeavoring to accomplish something, often under challenging circumstances. Whether in a literal or metaphorical sense, "shot at" signifies a chance, an opportunity, or an opening to pursue a target.

    In a literal sense, "shot at" can pertain to shooting a firearm or any projectile weapon towards a specific target. It denotes the act of aiming and discharging a weapon with an intent to hit or strike something. This usage often implies a momentary act, as in firing a single projectile.

    In a figurative sense, "shot at" can be used to describe an opportunity or attempt to achieve a goal or to succeed in a particular endeavor. It suggests making an effort, taking a chance, or trying something with the hope of attaining a desired outcome. This usage is commonly seen in phrases like "taking a shot at success" or "giving it a shot," where "shot" symbolically represents an attempt or an opportunity.

    Moreover, "shot at" can also convey a negative connotation when used to describe a situation where someone has been targeted, subjected to attack, or faced with a threat. It implies being in the line of fire or experiencing hostility from others.

    Overall, "shot at" is a versatile phrase that can encompass various meanings, primarily depending on the context in which it is used.

Common Misspellings for SHOT AT

  • ahot at
  • zhot at
  • xhot at
  • dhot at
  • ehot at
  • whot at
  • sgot at
  • sbot at
  • snot at
  • sjot at
  • suot at
  • syot at
  • shit at
  • shkt at
  • shlt at
  • shpt at
  • sh0t at
  • sh9t at
  • shof at
  • shog at

Etymology of SHOT AT

The etymology of the phrase "shot at" can be analyzed by examining its individual components.

"Shot" is the past participle of the verb "shoot", which dates back to Old English. The Old English word "scēotan" meant "to project missiles, throw, or shoot", and it is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "skeutaną", meaning "to shoot". This term can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root *skeud-, which carries the meaning of "to shoot, to chase away".

"At" is a preposition that has its origins in Old English. It is derived from the Old English word "æt", which denoted "at" or "near". This Old English word is ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word *at, which has the same meaning.

Idioms with the word SHOT AT

  • have a shot at (someone or something) The idiom "have a shot at (someone or something)" generally means to attempt or take a chance at achieving or attacking something. It can refer to making an effort to achieve a goal, attempting to win or succeed in a competition, or even taking a risk in pursuing someone romantically.
  • have a shot at The idiom "have a shot at" means to have a chance or opportunity to accomplish or succeed in something that may be challenging or uncertain. It implies taking a risk or attempting something with determination in order to achieve a desired outcome.
  • take a shot at sm or sth The idiom "take a shot at someone or something" means to make an attempt at doing or achieving something, often referring to trying something new or challenging. It implies taking a risk or giving something a try, even if success is uncertain.
  • take a shot at sth The idiom "take a shot at something" means to make an attempt or try something, often with an element of uncertainty or risk involved. It implies taking a chance or giving something a try, even if success is not guaranteed. This idiom is commonly used when referring to trying something new, taking a risk, or attempting something challenging.
  • take a shot at The idiom "take a shot at" means to attempt or try something, often with uncertainty or a sense of risk involved. It suggests taking a chance or making an effort to achieve a particular outcome, despite the possibility of failure or uncertain success.