Meaning & use
one-shot
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Meanings
adjectivebefore a noun
Happening or done only once, with no second chance or repetition.
Grammar: Always used before a noun: 'a one-shot opportunity'. It is not used after a linking verb.
Patterns
- a one-shot deal
- a one-shot opportunity
- a one-shot attempt
This is a one-shot deal, so don't mess it up.
The interview is your one-shot chance to impress them.
They gave him a one-shot opportunity to prove himself.
nouncountableinformal
A single attempt or occasion, especially in a game or competition.
Grammar: Often used in the phrase 'in one shot' meaning with a single attempt.
Patterns
- in one shot
- get a one shot
He sank the ball in one shot.
You only get one shot at this, so aim carefully.
She solved the puzzle in one shot.
adjectivebefore a nounspecialist
In comics or films, telling a complete story in a single episode or issue.
Grammar: Used before a noun: 'a one-shot comic'. It contrasts with a series.
Patterns
- a one-shot comic
- a one-shot episode
The writer released a one-shot comic that sold out quickly.
This one-shot episode wraps up the whole story.
Word forms
| plural | one-shots |
|---|
Common combinations
- one-shot deal
- The contract was a one-shot deal with no renewal.
- one-shot opportunity
- This is a one-shot opportunity to work abroad.
- in one shot
- She finished the race in one shot.
- one-shot comic
- He bought a one-shot comic at the convention.
Synonyms and how they differ
- single-use
- Describes something made to be used once and then thrown away, like a camera; 'one-shot' is about a single attempt or event, not physical disposal.
- one-off
- British; means happening only once and not repeated, but usually refers to an event or product, not a single attempt.
- standalone
- Describes a story or product that works on its own without a series; 'one-shot' emphasizes a single episode, while 'standalone' emphasizes independence.
Opposites
Commonly confused: one-shot or one-off?
one-shot vs one-off
'One-off' means a single, unique event or item. 'One-shot' often means a single attempt or a single-episode story. They are close but not interchangeable.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'one-shot' correctly?
Choose one answer.
'One-shot' is hyphenated when it comes before a noun, as in option 1. Option 2 is missing the hyphen. Option 3 puts the adjective after the noun, which is wrong. Option 4 uses a past participle form that does not exist.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “one-shot”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.