potshot
UK[ˈpɒtʃɒt]US[ˈpɑːtʃɑːt]
n
A casual or random shot, especially one taken without careful aim.
n
A critical remark made in a random or unfair manner.
Morpheme Breakdown
pot
shot
pot
shot
Etymology
The term 'potshot' originated in the 19th century from the practice of shooting game, such as birds or small animals, simply to obtain food for the pot, without regard for the rules of sport or marksmanship. The literal combination of 'pot' (as a container for the catch) and 'shot' (the act of firing) described an easy, utilitarian kill. Over time, this concrete meaning broadened into a metaphor for any action taken casually, carelessly, or opportunistically, particularly a haphazard attempt or a cheap, unfair criticism.
Analysis
Structure: pot + shot
- pot: Origin: English (from Old English pott, of Germanic origin). Role: Noun used attributively, historically referring to a vessel or target in games.
- shot: Origin: English (from Old English sc(e)ot, gesceot, of Germanic origin). Role: Noun, the act of shooting.
Examples
The hunter took a potshot at the rabbit from his car window.
The critic's review was just a series of lazy potshots at the director's earlier work.
He scored the goal with a lucky potshot from midfield.