aim at, sight, shadow, stalk
狙 centers on targeting something precisely: aiming at a goal, sighting a target, or stalking prey. The shadow sense extends this idea to following or watching closely from concealment.
狙 combines 犭 (dog/beast) with 且, which likely contributes the sound. The character suggests an animal stalking or lying in wait, which fits the core meaning of aiming or targeting.
A wild beast 犭 crouches beside a shelf-like shape 且, waiting to spring. It is aiming at its target, stalking from the shadows.
For ソ, imagine a sniper aiming through a scope, whispering 'so' as they lock onto the target: so -> ソ, and the beast-like focus matches the stalking idea.
to aim at (with a weapon, etc.)
aim (of a gun, bow, etc.)
shooting; sniping
sharpshooting; shooting; sniping
to prowl after; to keep watch on
to aim for laughs; to play to the crowd
aiming for laughs; trying to make people laugh; playing to the crowd; crowd-pleaser
to take careful aim (at)
target; objective
to take aim (at); to set one's sights (on)
to take aim (at); to set one's sights (on); to zero in (on)
one's chance; the right time; target; objective
according to plan; as planned; on target
sniper; sharpshooter
sniper
sniper rifle
betting on an outsider (in horse racing, etc.); taking a long shot; dark horse betting
burglary (of an empty house); burglar (who targets empty houses); sneak thief; prowler
vehicle burglary; theft from a vehicle; stealing valuables from an unattended car