Scattershot: meaning, definitions and examples
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scattershot
[ ˈskætərˌʃɑt ]
random approach
Scattershot refers to a method or style that is disorganized or lacks a clear plan. It is often used to describe an approach that addresses a wide range of topics or issues without focusing on one specific area. Such an approach tends to produce mixed results, as it may be too broad to effectively address any particular subject.
Synonyms
aimless, disorganized, haphazard, random.
Examples of usage
- The scattershot strategy led to confusion among team members.
- His scattershot presentation jumped from topic to topic without coherence.
- The scattershot campaign failed to resonate with the target audience.
wide range
As a noun, scattershot refers to a method that involves spreading efforts across many areas without targeting any specific outcome. It highlights a lack of focus and may suggest an inability to concentrate on a single issue or goal.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- His scattershot ideas made it hard to pinpoint a clear direction.
- The project suffered from a scattershot approach that didn't yield any significant results.
- The scattershot nature of their marketing efforts diluted their brand message.
Etymology
The term scattershot originated from the world of firearms in the early 20th century. It describes the type of ammunition that spreads out upon firing, thus hitting a wide area rather than a specific target. The analogy was quickly adopted into the English language to describe situations or actions that lack focus or precision. Over time, 'scattershot' has evolved to become a metaphor in various contexts, including discussions about strategies, methods, and approaches, where the term illustrates a broader, more chaotic methodology. Its usage has expanded across various fields such as marketing, education, and even personal planning, where a scattershot method often leads to mixed performances and outcomes.