B1verb1K

Shoot

UK /["/ʃuːt/","/ʃuːts/","/ʃɒt/","/ˈʃuːtɪŋ/"]/US /["/ʃuːt/","/ʃuːts/","/ʃɑːt/","/ˈʃuːtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to fire a gun or other weapon; to fire something from a weapon

In simple words: To fire a gun or throw something.

Examples

I need to shoot some photos for my project this weekend.
He was able to shoot the basketball from the three-point line.
The director wanted to shoot the scene at sunset for better lighting.
During the game, you need to shoot quickly to score points.
The hunters decided to shoot wild turkeys during the season.
He was upset when he missed his chance to shoot the target.
You can shoot a video with your smartphone to share online.
If you shoot for the stars, you might achieve great things.

Usage notes

Use 'shoot' primarily in contexts related to firearms, sports, or photography. Avoid in very formal situations; may be seen as casual or aggressive.

Grammar pattern

shoot + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'shot' in basketball; you're taking a shot when you shoot the ball.

Collocations

accurately
straight
accidentally
want to
threaten to
be about to
at
in
into
shoot (somebody) on sight
shoot somebody dead
shoot to kill
accurately
straight
accidentally
want to
threaten to
be about to
at
in
into
shoot (somebody) on sight
shoot somebody dead
shoot to kill

Synonyms

chat

Antonyms

catch
save
hold

Common mistakes

Confused with 'shot' when referring to an action.
Using 'shoot' in the past tense incorrectly as 'shooted'.
Mixing up meanings, such as using it for other actions not related to firing.