flurry of shots

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flurry of shots" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a rapid series of gunfire or a quick succession of actions, often in a dramatic or intense context. Example: "The movie's climax featured a flurry of shots that left the audience on the edge of their seats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

A photographer took a flurry of shots as she walked by.

The New York Times

UConn appeared rattled, missing a flurry of shots inside and out.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, Ms. Fisher beat him with a flurry of shots to close out the match.

The New York Times

The Islanders threatened to tie it late in the third period on a flurry of shots.

The New York Times - Sports

After the ramming, a brief but ferocious flurry of shots from the boat carrying the agents was clearly visible.

The New York Times

The Capitals kept their net empty after that, and Vasilevskiy once again stopped a flurry of shots.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

It was all but assured that Bryant's last game would be little more than a series of passes from lesser Lakers to the legend of the moment, an uncountable flurry of shot attempts from a man who made them an art, make or miss.

The New Yorker

The attack, heralded by the sound of a sniper round taking out a terrorist standing by the window, was over in minutes amid a flurry of shouts and shots.

Vice

The Philadelphia Flyers had a two-man advantage for 1 minute 41 seconds in the Islanders' 2-1 victory Saturday, and Osgood stopped several flurries of shots.

The New York Times - Sports

The most momentum Buffalo managed after it cut a three-goal advantage to one came with a flurry of five shots on a power play in the third, but with shot-blocking efforts and strong work by goaltender Michal Neuvirth, who finished with 31 saves, the Capitals held on.

The Washington Post

The Swansea defenders threw themselves at the flurry of Watford shots, and they almost scored a second in added time but Gomis' shot came back off the post.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a fast-paced sequence of actions, use "flurry of shots" to effectively convey the speed and intensity. For example, in sports writing, it vividly illustrates a team's offensive burst.

Common error

Avoid using "flurry of shots" in contexts where the term "shots" could be misinterpreted as violent. Choose more appropriate phrasing if the context is, for example, a "flurry of attempts" or a "series of efforts".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flurry of shots" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a rapid succession or burst of shooting actions. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is commonly used and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sports

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "flurry of shots" is a commonly used noun phrase to describe a rapid succession of shooting actions or similar fast-paced events. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It's most frequently found in News & Media and Sports contexts, maintaining a neutral register. While alternatives like "burst of shots" or "barrage of shots" exist, it's important to consider the specific nuance you want to convey. Avoid overuse in non-violent contexts to prevent misinterpretation. This comprehensive analysis equips you with the knowledge to use the phrase effectively and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

burst of shots

Emphasizes a sudden and forceful release, akin to a "flurry", but potentially shorter in duration.

barrage of shots

Implies a continuous and overwhelming stream, suggesting a greater intensity than a "flurry".

hail of shots

Conveys a sense of numerous projectiles arriving rapidly, often used in intense combat scenarios.

rapid fire of shots

Highlights the speed and continuity of the shots being fired.

succession of shots

Focuses on the sequence and order of the shots, rather than their intensity.

volley of shots

Suggests a simultaneous discharge of multiple shots from different sources.

fusillade of shots

Indicates a simultaneous or rapid series of shots fired from many firearms.

series of shots

A more general term denoting multiple shots occurring one after another.

round of shots

Refers to a complete sequence or cycle of shooting, often in a sporting context.

chain of shots

Highlights the interconnectedness or sequence of shots, implying a causal relationship.

FAQs

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

You can use "flurry of shots" to describe a rapid series of gunfires or actions, often in intense situations. For example: "The hockey game ended with a "flurry of shots" on the goal."

What's a good alternative to "flurry of shots"?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives like "burst of shots", "barrage of shots", or "hail of shots".

Is "flurry of shots" formal or informal?

"Flurry of shots" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it's more common in news reporting and sports commentary, which lean towards a neutral register.

Is it appropriate to use "flurry of shots" metaphorically?

While primarily used to describe literal gunfire or actions in sports, "flurry of shots" can be used metaphorically to describe a rapid sequence of any actions, such as in business or debate. However, ensure that it is not misinterpreted as an actual violent act.