parting shot

USAGE SUMMARY

"parting shot" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to a final remark or action, often with a critical or sarcastic tone. Example: "Before leaving the meeting, she made a parting shot about the project's lack of progress." Alternative expressions include "final remark" and "last word."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Culture

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Kevin Pietersen has "less than zero interest" in Graeme Swann's parting shot about arrogant Test cricketers.

Independent

I try a parting shot about his post-World Cup plans.

The Guardian - Sport

The lander's suite of microcameras had taken a parting shot of Rosetta moments after separation.

The Guardian

I don't think his parting shot sounds very thick-skinned at all.

The Guardian - Books

The ultimate rugby grafter pauses momentarily before delivering his parting shot.

The Guardian - Sport

"Terrible refereeing," was Kyrgios's parting shot to Keothavong, another graceless exit, sadly.

The Guardian - Sport

"I suppose a pity frak's out of the question?" Gaeta's parting shot to Starbuck.

The Guardian

And just like that, Entsminger's parting shot became another chapter in the big book of Cleveland unrequited love.

The New York Times - Sports

"There'll be no easy games for teams coming to Tottenham," was the parting shot of United's manager, Alex Ferguson.

The New York Times - Sports

Her parting shot to Monrad is all-encompassing and final: "Oh, don't stand there like a disappointed fat boy".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Preetam's parting shot to me was quite clear.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "parting shot" when you want to emphasize a final remark or action that is often critical, sarcastic, or decisive. It's suitable when the context involves a sense of closure or conclusion.

Common error

Avoid using "parting shot" in neutral or positive contexts. The phrase typically carries a negative or critical connotation; using it inappropriately can create a tone you didn't intend.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "parting shot" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a final remark or action, usually carrying a critical or sarcastic undertone. Ludwig AI indicates that it’s grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Sports

18%

Culture

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "parting shot" is a noun phrase referring to a final remark or action, typically carrying a critical or sarcastic tone. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It's frequently found in news and sports contexts, conveying a sense of finality and often negativity. When writing, be mindful of its connotation, as it’s best suited for situations where a concluding, pointed statement is intended. Alternatives such as "final comment" or "last remark" may be more appropriate in neutral contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

parting remark

Highlights the final statement made upon departure.

final comment

Focuses on the verbal aspect, a last remark made in a conversation or discussion.

last word

Emphasizes the act of having the final say in an argument or exchange.

final insult

Specifically denotes a concluding offensive or belittling statement.

last jab

Implies a quick, sharp, and often critical remark.

concluding statement

A more formal way to describe the last declaration or comment made.

leave-taking zinger

Captures a humorous or witty remark delivered upon departure.

closing argument

Refers to the final summary presented in a debate or legal proceeding.

final act

Shifts the focus to a concluding action or maneuver, not necessarily verbal.

final blow

Suggests a decisive and often damaging concluding action or statement.

FAQs

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

You can use "parting shot" to describe a final, often critical or sarcastic remark made when someone is leaving or ending a conversation. For example, "His "parting shot" about the company's future left everyone uneasy".

What's a less negative alternative to "parting shot"?

If you need a more neutral term, consider using phrases like "final comment", "last remark", or "concluding statement" instead.

What is the difference between "parting shot" and "final word"?

"Parting shot" implies a critical or pointed remark, whereas "final word" simply means the last thing said, without necessarily carrying a negative connotation. The "final word" might be neutral or even agreeable.

Is "parting shot" formal or informal?

"Parting shot" is generally considered informal, suitable for casual conversations and news reporting, but less appropriate for academic writing or formal business communications. In professional settings, consider using "concluding remarks" or similar phrases.