shot out

USAGE SUMMARY

"shot out" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It can be used as a verb phrase to describe the action of quickly and forcefully ejecting something or someone from a particular place or position. Example 1: The bullet shot out of the barrel with a loud bang. Example 2: The horse shot out of the starting gate, racing towards the finish line. Example 3: The students shot out of their seats when the fire alarm went off.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He hardly missed a shot out there".

The New York Times - Sports

"Maybe we've got a shot out there".

The New York Times

Schmeichel, however, showed his class to keep the shot out.

The Guardian - Sport

One lets loose a shot out of frustration.

The Guardian

A straightened spring shot out through the hole.

The New York Times

You can't fall asleep on any shot out here".

Los Angeles Times

And you get a shot out of it".

Huffington Post

Some asshole shot out my window again last night.

Huffington Post

If you don't believe us check this shot out.

Vice

to get a shot out of focus.

WikiHow

Suspect shot at building and shot out window.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "shot out" to vividly describe sudden, forceful movements or ejections. This adds dynamic energy to your writing. For example, "The cork shot out of the champagne bottle, startling everyone."

Common error

Avoid using "shot out" excessively in formal contexts where a more refined or precise verb would be more appropriate. For instance, replace "shot out" with "emerged" or "extended" in professional documents.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "shot out" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, indicating a sudden and forceful movement or ejection. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, where it describes actions like objects being ejected or people moving quickly.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shot out" is a phrasal verb that vividly describes a sudden and forceful movement or ejection. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and often used in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in formality, it might be less appropriate for very formal or academic writing. Consider alternatives like "burst forth" or "darted out" depending on the desired nuance. When employing "shot out", aim to capture the dynamic energy and suddenness of the action you are describing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ejected rapidly

Focuses on the speed and force of being ejected, emphasizing a quick expulsion.

burst forth

Implies a sudden and energetic release or emergence, often with a sense of force.

darted out

Conveys a quick and sudden movement, often used for small, agile objects or creatures.

sprang out

Suggests a sudden, leaping movement outward, often from a hidden or confined space.

propelled outward

Highlights the action of being forcefully pushed or driven out.

launched forward

Implies a strong and directed movement ahead, often with the aid of a launching mechanism.

expelled forcefully

Emphasizes the forceful ejection or removal of something.

erupted suddenly

Suggests a sudden and often violent release or outbreak.

bolted out

Emphasizes a quick and abrupt escape or exit.

rushed out

Implies a hurried and energetic exit, often due to urgency.

FAQs

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

You can use "shot out" to describe a sudden, forceful movement. For example, "The ball shot out of the cannon" or "He shot out of his chair when he heard the news".

What does "shot out" mean?

"Shot out" generally means to move or eject something rapidly and forcefully from a confined space or position.

What are some alternatives to "shot out"?

Some alternatives include "burst forth", "darted out", or "ejected rapidly", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "shot out" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "shot out" might be too informal for some formal contexts. Consider using more precise and sophisticated vocabulary in professional or academic writing, but it is acceptable in news media and general writing.