- To take a chance or make an attempt, especially in expressing romantic interest in someone or pursuing an opportunity, even if success is uncertain.
- To be bold and go for it.
Explanation
Origin
- Primarily from basketball, where a player shoots their shot by attempting to score a basket. Every shot is a chance taken, with no guarantee of success.
- The phrase was adopted into African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and broader internet/youth slang to mean taking a risk, particularly in initiating romantic contact (e.g., sending a DM, asking someone out).
- It emphasizes bravery and action over hesitation.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- YOLO (You Only Live Once used to justify taking a risk)
- Just do it (popularized by Nike, common encouragement)
- Man up / Woman up (older, potentially gendered slang for being brave use cautiously)
- Grow a pair (vulgar, same meaning as above)
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Fuck it, just ask.
- What the hell, give it a shot.
Milder:
- Make your move
- Express your interest
- Try your luck
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal. Very common in casual conversations among friends, peers, and online, especially regarding dating or pursuing goals.
- Avoid in formal settings. Take a chance or pursue the opportunity are more appropriate formal alternatives.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Could be misunderstood literally if the context isn't clear (e.g., talking about actual shooting). Emphasize the metaphorical meaning of taking a chance, especially romantically or for an opportunity.
Examples
- You clearly like her, just shoot your shot and ask her out!
- I saw the job opening and decided to shoot my shot, even though I don't meet all the qualifications.
- He shot his shot by sliding into her DMs. (Slide into DMs: contacting someone via direct message on social media, often to express romantic interest).
Dialogue
Liam: I really want to ask Maya to the dance, but I'm too nervous.
Noah: Dude, she's been smiling at you all week. Just shoot your shot!
Liam: You think I have a chance?
Noah: You'll never know if you don't try! Go for it!
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: Saw my crush at the coffee shop... Debating whether to shoot my shot or just admire from afar. Wish me luck! 🙏 #ShootYourShot #dating
- Instagram Story Poll: Should I shoot my shot and DM him? YES / NO WAY
- TikTok Video: Person nervously typing a message, text overlay: Me about to shoot my shot...
Response Patterns
- Encouragement: Yeah, do it! What have you got to lose? / Go for it!
- Hesitation/Question: I don't know... what if they say no? / You think I should?
- After someone says they did it: Nice! What happened? / Good for you for trying! / Did it work?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After encouraging someone to shoot their shot:
- Offer support or specific advice: What's the worst that can happen? or Maybe start with a casual message?
After someone says they shot their shot:
- Ask about the outcome: And...? What did they say? or How did it go?
- Congratulate them on their bravery, regardless of the outcome: Props for putting yourself out there!
Conversation Starter
- No. It's usually advice given to someone hesitating or a description of an action taken.
Intonation
- Emphasis usually on shoot and shot.
- Often said with encouragement, boldness, or recounting a brave action. Just SHOOT your SHOT!
Generation Differences
- Extremely common among Gen Z and Millennials, particularly in online contexts and discussions about dating. Older generations might use take a chance or go for it more often but generally understand the meaning.
Regional Variations
- Originated in the US (AAVE) but now widely used and understood globally due to internet culture.