Translation guide
The English word "shot" has many meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: a gunshot, an attempt, a photograph, an injection, a drink, and more. Each meaning has its own natural Japanese expressions.
The sound or act of firing a gun or similar weapon.
Literally 'gun sound', used for the sound of a gunshot.
I heard a gunshot in the distance.
The act of firing a gun. Often used in news or formal contexts.
The police were authorized to fire their weapons.
Shooting as an activity or sport, like target shooting.
He is good at shooting.
One shot, one round. Counter for bullets or attempts.
Only one bullet was left.
An attempt to do something, or a chance to try.
A challenge or attempt, often used positively.
I'll give it another shot.
An attempt or trial, slightly formal.
Casual phrase meaning 'to give it a try'.
Loanword meaning 'chance' or 'opportunity', often used like 'shot' in sports or games.
A single photograph or the act of taking a picture.
General word for photograph. Use with counters like 一枚 (いちまい) for 'one shot'.
This shot came out really well.
Loanword used in photography or film contexts, like 'camera shot'.
The act of shooting a photo or film. Often used in professional contexts.
An injection of medicine or a vaccine.
A small serving of strong alcohol, often drunk quickly.
An attempt to score a goal in sports like soccer, basketball, or hockey.
A continuous scene filmed by a camera.
English 'shot' covers many concepts that have distinct Japanese words. Using ショット for everything will sound unnatural. Choose the word that matches the specific meaning.
In soccer and basketball, シュート is the standard term for a shot on goal. ショット is more common in golf, tennis, or billiards. In casual conversation, シュート is safer for team sports.
新しい試みは成功した。
The new attempt was successful.
できるかどうかやってみよう。
Let's give it a shot and see if we can do it.
This is your last shot.
I got a good shot.
撮影は順調に進んでいる。
The shooting is going smoothly.
Specifically vaccination. Formal term.
I made an appointment for a vaccine shot.
テキーラを一杯飲んだ。
I drank a shot of tequila.
His shot was powerful.
The director liked that shot.