Shoot your shot - meaning and definition
Alsoshooting your shotshot my shot
Definition
Slang for making a move: telling someone you like them or asking them out, even though they might say no.
At a glance
- Means taking the chance to show romantic interest.
- Borrowed from basketball and other sports.
- Usually means one clear, respectful attempt.
- Accepting a no gracefully is part of it.
In detail
The phrase comes from sport, where you take the chance to score. In dating it encourages people to act on their interest instead of waiting, for example by sending the first message or asking someone on a date.
Shooting your shot is about one clear, respectful attempt. If the answer is no, or there is no reply, accepting that gracefully is part of the deal.
In a sentence
- I finally shot my shot and asked her to dinner.
- Shoot your shot, the worst they can say is no.
Common questions
How do you shoot your shot respectfully?
Be direct and kind, make it easy for the other person to say no, and do not push if they decline or do not respond.