In this post, we will explore common English idioms that include the word “shoot.” Idioms are phrases that have a different meaning than the words actually say. Even kids can learn these fun expressions!
Shoot Idioms
Here are 20 shoot idioms in English with meaning and example sentences for each.
Shoot the breeze
Meaning: To chat casually
Example: They shoot the breeze during lunch.
Shoot from the hip
Meaning: Speak or act rashly
Example: He often shoots from the hip in meetings.
Shoot oneself in the foot
Meaning: Harm one’s own cause
Example: She really shot herself in the foot by lying.
Shoot the moon
Meaning: Try something difficult
Example: They decided to shoot the moon with their new idea.
Shoot for the stars
Meaning: Aim for a high goal
Example: Always shoot for the stars, kids.
Shoot down
Meaning: Reject an idea or plan
Example: His proposal was quickly shot down.
Shoot up
Meaning: Increase rapidly
Example: Prices shoot up every year.
Shoot straight
Meaning: Be honest
Example: Always shoot straight with your friends.
Shoot one’s shot
Meaning: Take a chance
Example: He decided to shoot his shot and ask her out.
Shoot through
Meaning: Leave quickly
Example: He had to shoot through to catch the train.
Shoot off one’s mouth
Meaning: Talk indiscreetly
Example: Don’t shoot off your mouth in sensitive situations.
Shoot a look
Meaning: Glance quickly
Example: She shot a look at her watch.
Shoot back
Meaning: Return quickly
Example: He shot back with a witty reply.
Shoot ahead
Meaning: Move forward rapidly
Example: The car shot ahead of the others.
Shoot the rapids
Meaning: Navigate difficult waters
Example: They were excited to shoot the rapids.
Shoot to fame
Meaning: Become famous quickly
Example: She shot to fame overnight.
Shoot a line
Meaning: Deceive with smooth talk
Example: He can shoot a line to impress.
Shoot the messenger
Meaning: Blame the bearer of bad news
Example: Don’t shoot the messenger, it’s not his fault.
Shoot down in flames
Meaning: Fail spectacularly
Example: The plan was shot down in flames.
Shoot the works
Meaning: Spend a lot of money
Example: They decided to shoot the works at the wedding.
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