shot

a big shot: see a big cheese atbig.

by a long shot by far; outstandingly. informal

2014Mac Observer Many of the bloggers in question may actually be too young to realize just how revolutionary the iPhone was…. It beats the first Mac I bought years ago too, by a long shot.

call the shots (or tune) take the initiative in deciding how something should be done; be in control. informal

☞ Call the shots was originally an American phrase, first recorded in the 1960s in the context of dice gambling. Call the tune comes from the saying he who pays the piper calls the tune, which dates from the late 19th century.

2014New Statesman In the event of a future financial crisis, the UK chancellor calls the shots and can direct the Bank of England's governor to take specific action to restore financial stability.

get (or be) shot of get (or be) rid of. British informal

give it your best shot try as hard as you can to do something. informal

have shot your bolt: seebolt.

like a shot without hesitation; willingly. informal

not a shot in your locker no money or chances left. British

☞ The locker referred to in this expression is a compartment in which ammunition is kept.

not by a long shot by no means.

a shot in the arm stimulus or encouragement. informal

a shot in the dark: seedark.

shot to pieces (or to hell) ruined. informal

a warning shot across the bows: seebow.