Shot: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word in sports, photography, or when trying to do something quickly.

• He took a quick shot at the goal
• She captured a beautiful shot of the sunset

This word is best used when making a try at something, often with the implication that success is not guaranteed.

• His first attempt at baking was a failure, but he didn't give up
• She made an attempt to speak French

This word is used in sports or physical contexts, often where deliberate hitting is involved. It can also mean a work stoppage.

• He made a perfect strike in bowling
• The workers went on strike for better wages

Use 'effort' when talking about the amount of work put into trying to do something.

• Her effort in the project was commendable
• It took a lot of effort to climb the mountain

Refers to a single frame or a short sequence in films or photography. It can also mean an attempt at doing something.

• The director wanted another shot of the sunset.
• He took a shot at hitting the target but missed.

Refers specifically to an image captured using a camera, typically used in formal or semi-formal contexts.

• He took a beautiful photograph of the mountains during his vacation.
• The photograph in the newspaper showed the event in great detail.

A general term for any visual representation, such as in art, digital graphics, or memory. Often used in technical or formal discussions.

• The software can analyze the image and identify objects within it.
• She had a vivid image of her childhood home in her mind.

A broad and informal term for any kind of visual representation, including drawings, paintings, and photographs.

• She loves to draw pictures of animals.
• Can you take a picture of us with your phone?

This term is commonly used informally in American English when referring to any kind of injection, especially in casual conversations about medical treatment or immunization.

• I need to get my flu shot before winter.
• Did you get your tetanus shot after the accident?

This word is typically used in a formal or medical context. It refers to the act of putting a liquid, usually a drug, into someone's body using a needle and syringe.

• The patient needed an injection of antibiotics to fight the infection.
• She has a fear of injections, so the nurse had to be very gentle.

This term is used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly when discussing immunization against diseases. It's more specific than 'shot' and usually refers to preventive healthcare.

• Vaccination against measles is important for children.
• She completed her series of vaccinations before traveling abroad.

This term is mainly used in British English and is informal. It is often used when talking about vaccinations or simple medical injections.

• I went to the clinic for my COVID-19 jab.
• He didn't want to cry, but the jab was painful.

This word has been duplicated. Please refer to the first entry for its context and examples.

Used in medical contexts to describe the act of forcing a liquid into the body using a needle and syringe.

• The doctor injected the patient with a painkiller
• Insulin needs to be injected regularly by diabetes patients

Informal and commonly associated with drug use, particularly with negative connotations involving illegal drug injection.

• He was caught in the alley trying to shoot up
• She had a turbulent past, often shooting up with friends

Commonly used in formal or medical contexts to describe the act of giving a medication or treatment to a patient.

• The nurse administered the anesthesia before the surgery
• The doctor will administer the vaccine in the clinic