Definition

Verb (transitive, phrasal verb): 1. To aim for or strive to achieve a specific, often ambitious, goal or target. It implies setting one's sights on a particular objective and making an effort to attain it.

Usage

This phrasal verb is used to express the act of targeting a specific achievement. It is often followed by the goal itself. * Structure: shoot for + [goal/target/objective] * Tone: It is informal and suggests ambition, aspiration, or a challenging aim.

Examples

• Basic Usage:
  • Don't just aim to pass; you should shoot for an A+ in that class.
  • The company is shooting for a 20% increase in sales this quarter.
  • We're shooting for a finish time of under three hours.

Advanced Usage

• "to shoot for the stars": This is a common idiomatic extension meaning to set extremely high or ambitious goals.
  • My mentor always told me to shoot for the stars, so I applied to the top university.

Variants and Related Words

• Aim for (phrasal verb): A more neutral synonym for "shoot for."
  • We are aiming for completion by Friday.
• Strive for (verb phrase): Emphasizes continuous and great effort toward a goal.
  • The team strives for excellence in every project.
• Target (verb): To establish as a goal or objective.
  • The campaign targets young adults.

Synonyms

• Aspire to
• Go for
• Set one's sights on

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Shoot down (phrasal verb): To criticize or reject an idea or proposal, often harshly.
  • He shot down my suggestion immediately.
• Shoot up (phrasal verb): To increase or rise very quickly.
  • Prices have shot up in the last month.

Related Idioms

• Set the bar high: To establish a high standard or goal.
  • By winning the championship, they have set the bar high for next season.

Verb

1. have an ambitious plan or a lofty goal