nerves shot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "nerves shot" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a state of extreme stress or anxiety, indicating that someone is feeling overwhelmed or frazzled. Example: "After the long meeting and the unexpected news, my nerves are shot, and I need a break."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Nerves shot, furrowed brow, jittery reflexes, feverish--symptoms that point to only one diagnosis--you have Grantitis!

Science Magazine

Chris Berry, a picture of poise on a day of frayed nerves, shot a five-under-par 67 yesterday to carry struggling Nevada-Las Vegas to a three-shot victory over Clemson at the National Collegiate Athletic Association golf championships in Albuquerque, N.M.

The New York Times - Sports

My nerves shot, I drank till 4am with a group of booksellers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Ronsel cannot accept the Delta's endemic racism and Jamie, nerves shot to pieces, has turned to drink.

The Guardian - Books

While she shopped, I couldn't help but notice the music blaring on the store's speaker system it left my ears ringing and my nerves shot.

University of California, Berkeley

Then again, maybe mutual babying, too much time spent apart, West's nerves shot from working on politics and lectures and essays while raising a young son with no help from the stingy, married Wells -- maybe all this was the heart of the affair.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"You can't even explain how you feel and how your nerves get shot, and [in the moment] you really can't think of anything other than just to save your life," she said.

Los Angeles Times

"It's a very nerve-racking shot".

The New York Times - Sports

This summer, in an announcement that surely sent some of her friends straight to the fourth floor of Bergdorf's for a nerve-steadying shot of cashmere, she became the Republican Party candidate for State Assembly in the 73rd District, the heart of the Silk Stocking district.

The New York Times - Style

But now they may have little choice, thanks to a book which will likely send them back to the decanter for yet a third, nerve-calming shot of Calvados.

Forbes

"Our nerves are all shot".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "nerves shot" to vividly convey a state of extreme anxiety or depletion following a stressful event or prolonged period of pressure. It's most effective in informal or narrative contexts where a strong emotional expression is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "nerves shot" in formal or professional writing, as it can sound too colloquial. Opt for more neutral terms like "stressed" or "overwhelmed" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "nerves shot" functions as an adjective phrase describing a state of emotional or mental exhaustion and heightened anxiety. As shown in Ludwig's examples, it typically follows a linking verb (e.g., "are", "were") to attribute this state to a person or entity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

12%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "nerves shot" effectively describes a state of extreme stress or anxiety, and it is considered grammatically correct. Ludwig AI suggests that while the phrase is acceptable and understood, its use is more appropriate in informal or narrative contexts rather than formal settings. The phrase appears most commonly in News & Media sources. Consider using alternatives like "stressed out" or "on edge" in more formal situations. Remember that its vividness can be powerful in conveying emotional intensity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

frayed nerves

Emphasizes the raw and sensitive feeling of one's nerves.

on edge

Focuses more on the feeling of being unsettled and reactive.

stressed out

A broader term for feeling overwhelmed by stress.

frazzled

Implies a state of being both mentally and physically exhausted and disorganized.

at the end of my rope

Suggests a feeling of hopelessness and inability to cope.

completely drained

Highlights the feeling of extreme exhaustion.

worn out

Focuses on the feeling of fatigue and being depleted of energy.

burned out

Implies long-term stress leading to exhaustion and reduced interest.

highly strung

Emphasizes a tendency to be anxious and easily agitated.

on tenterhooks

Implies a state of anxious suspense.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone's "nerves are shot"?

Saying someone's "nerves are shot" means they are feeling extremely anxious, stressed, and possibly exhausted, often after a challenging experience. It implies a state of depletion and heightened sensitivity.

How can I use "nerves shot" in a sentence?

You can use "nerves shot" in a sentence like this: "After the intense negotiations, my nerves were completely shot." It is used to express feeling emotionally or mentally drained.

What are some alternatives to saying "nerves shot"?

You can use alternatives like "stressed out", "on edge", or "frazzled" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "nerves shot" formal or informal language?

"Nerves shot" is considered informal language. It's best used in casual conversation or narrative writing rather than in formal or professional contexts.