a round of shots

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a round of shots" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in social contexts to refer to a group of alcoholic drinks served together, often in a celebratory setting. Example: "After the big win, we decided to order a round of shots to celebrate our victory."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

— ordered a round of shots.

The New Yorker

I heard a round of shots near the building entrance -- maybe 10 or 15.

The New York Times

He fired a round of shots at Brown, who he said turned around and advanced on Wilson.

The Guardian

At an Italian restaurant, a waitress bent the rules and set up a round of shots -- well after the midnight deadline for serving booze -- so that an out-of-town visitor could properly celebrate his birthday.

The New York Times - Sports

A round of shots punctuated introductions.

Vice

What screams PARTY more than a round of shots for everyone!

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

Then Mr. Pullen suggested a round of tequila shots.

The New York Times

Sure, you can buy her a round of tequila shots, but it'd be even nicer and more memorable if you gave her a small cake".

The New Yorker

Once inside, the group took refuge in a plush booth, where they ordered a round of pink shots made of vodka, pomegranate and pineapple juice.

The New York Times

They ordered a round of vodka shots and erupted in Highland cheers, drawing worried glances from patrons hovering over sweet multicolored cocktails at nearby tables.

The New York Times - Travel

"When we got all the messages about Al Davis passing, the first I thought is where are we going to go to pay our respects?" Niemczyk said after buying a round of tequila shots.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to celebratory occasions, using "a round of shots" can effectively convey a sense of camaraderie and festivity. Ensure that the context aligns with social drinking customs to avoid misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "a round of shots" in formal or professional settings where alcohol consumption may be inappropriate. Opt for more neutral phrases like "a refreshment break" or "a team celebration" to maintain professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a round of shots" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb (e.g., 'order', 'buy') or the subject complement in a sentence. It refers to the act of purchasing or providing a set of alcoholic drinks for a group.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a round of shots" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies the act of buying or ordering a set of alcoholic beverages for a group, often in celebratory contexts. As Ludwig suggests, the phrase is grammatically correct and functions primarily to foster social bonding. While prevalent in informal settings and news reporting, its use in formal contexts may be inappropriate. Alternative phrases, such as "a round of drinks", can be considered for more professional environments. The examples curated by Ludwig AI highlight this phrase's versatility and contextual relevance, reinforcing its place in contemporary English usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a set of drinks

Replaces 'shots' with a more general term 'drinks', broadening the context but maintaining the act of ordering beverages.

an order of short drinks

Specifies 'short drinks' as a less common but accurate substitute, emphasizing the small quantity.

a group of shooters

Uses the slang term 'shooters' for small alcoholic beverages, adding an informal tone.

a collection of spirits

Replaces 'shots' with 'spirits', indicating hard liquor, and slightly formalizes the phrase.

a series of tipples

Substitutes with 'tipples', an older, slightly humorous term for alcoholic drinks.

a round of cocktails

Substitutes 'shots' with 'cocktails', implying mixed alcoholic drinks, which are generally larger.

a course of injections

Changes the context to medical injections instead of alcoholic drinks, altering the meaning significantly.

a sequence of gunfire

Shifts the context to a series of gunshots, altering the meaning entirely from beverages to firearms.

a set of vaccine doses

Alters the meaning to medical vaccinations, moving away from the original alcoholic context.

a set of immunizations

Changes the context to the administration of vaccines, significantly changing the meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "a round of shots" in a sentence?

You can use "a round of shots" to describe the act of buying or ordering a set of alcoholic beverages for a group. For example: "He bought "a round of shots" for everyone at the bar to celebrate his promotion."

What's a less informal way to say "a round of shots"?

Alternatives such as "a round of drinks" or "a set of beverages" can be used for a less informal context while still retaining the idea of providing drinks for a group.

Is "a round of shots" appropriate in formal writing?

No, "a round of shots" is generally not appropriate in formal writing. Instead, consider using phrases like "a beverage service" or "providing refreshments". You can also say "a round of drinks" as an alternative.

What does "a round of shots" typically imply in social situations?

In social settings, "a round of shots" usually suggests a celebratory or festive atmosphere where people are partaking in small servings of alcoholic beverages together.