Sharpshooting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🎯
Add to dictionary

sharpshooting

[ˈʃɑːrpˌʃuːtɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in sports

The skill of shooting accurately and precisely, often used in reference to marksmanship competitions or sharpshooting exhibitions.

Synonyms

accurate shooting, marksmanship, precision shooting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sharpshooting

Used to describe the skill of shooting with great accuracy, often in a military or law enforcement context. It can also imply a high level of skill in hitting difficult or small targets.

  • The soldier was known for his sharpshooting abilities.
  • The competition was fierce, with many participants showcasing their sharpshooting skills.
marksmanship

Refers to the skill or ability of a person to shoot accurately at a target, typically focusing on the training and proficiency involved. This term is often used in both civilian and military contexts.

  • She received an award for her outstanding marksmanship.
  • Marksmanship is a crucial skill for any sniper.
precision shooting

Used to describe a high level of accuracy and consistency in shooting, often in sports or situations where the tight grouping of shots is essential.

  • Precision shooting competitions require shooters to hit the center of the target repeatedly.
  • His precision shooting was impressive, consistently hitting the bullseye.
accurate shooting

This phrase focuses specifically on the precision and correctness of shooting. It is used in general contexts, both in sports, recreational shooting, and various competitions where hitting the target precisely is important.

  • Accurate shooting is crucial in biathlon events.
  • He prides himself on his accurate shooting during hunting trips.

Examples of usage

  • He won the sharpshooting competition with his incredible accuracy.
  • The team's success is largely due to their sharpshooting abilities.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

The act of making quick and accurate decisions, often in high-pressure situations or competitive environments.

Synonyms

precision in action, quick decision making, rapid accuracy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
sharpshooting

Used primarily in contexts involving firearms or marksmanship to describe someone who is very skilled at hitting a target accurately.

  • His sharpshooting skills were unmatched in the entire police force
  • During the competition, her sharpshooting with the rifle impressed everyone
quick decision making

Used when referring to the ability to swiftly come to a decision, often under pressure or in time-sensitive situations.

  • In emergency situations, quick decision making can save lives
  • The manager's quick decision making led to the avoidance of a potential crisis
precision in action

Appropriate in scenarios requiring meticulous attention to detail and exactness in performing a task, not limited to physical activities but also in planning and execution.

  • The surgeon's precision in action was crucial for the success of the delicate operation
  • In launching a space mission, precision in action at every step is vital
rapid accuracy

Describes the ability to perform tasks both quickly and correctly, often used in contexts where speed and correctness are both necessary.

  • The typist's rapid accuracy allowed him to complete the report in record time
  • In coding, rapid accuracy can greatly improve productivity

Examples of usage

  • His sharpshooting in the boardroom helped the company succeed.
  • She demonstrated her sharpshooting skills during the debate.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term originated in the 17th century, referring to skilled marksmen participating in competitive shooting events.
  • During the American Civil War, sharpshooters played a crucial role by taking out important targets, changing battle strategies.
  • The name is derived from the 'Sharps Rifle', a weapon known for its accuracy, used widely in the 19th century.

Pop Culture

  • Sharpshooting is often dramatized in movies, where characters display near-superhuman precision, creating iconic scenes.
  • Video games often showcase sharpshooting as a skill, with players aiming for high scores or achievements.
  • Famous sharpshooters like Annie Oakley became pop culture icons, performing thrilling tricks and winning marksmanship competitions.

Sports

  • In shooting sports, competative sharpshooting events can include air rifle, pistol, and shotgun disciplines, highlighting precision under pressure.
  • Olympic events feature sharpshooting, with athletes competing in various styles and distances, showcasing their extraordinary skill.
  • The concept has influenced other sports, like basketball, where sharpshooting refers to achieving a high percentage of successful shots.

Psychology

  • Sharpshooting requires intense focus, patience, and mental discipline, traits similar to those needed in high-stakes professions.
  • Studies show that high-stress environments can affect performance, suggesting that even sharpshooters must manage anxiety effectively.
  • Experts emphasize that visualization techniques can help enhance precision and confidence in sharpshooting.

Technology

  • Modern sharpshooting often incorporates advanced optics, such as scopes and laser sights, improving accuracy significantly.
  • Some training programs use simulations and virtual reality to prepare sharpshooters for real-life scenarios without physical targets.
  • Innovative materials in firearm construction have enhanced the precision of weapons used in sharpshooting competitions.

Origin of 'sharpshooting'

The term 'sharpshooting' originated in the mid-19th century in the United States, during a time when marksmanship was highly valued. It was commonly used to describe individuals with exceptional shooting skills, particularly in competitive settings. Over time, the term evolved to encompass not just shooting accuracy but also the ability to make quick and precise decisions in various contexts. Today, 'sharpshooting' is used in sports, business, and everyday language to denote skill, accuracy, and quick thinking.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,060, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.