PhrasesHub

shoot for the stars

    Definitions

      • encourage someone
        Encourage someone to aim high and have ambitious goals or dreams, without fear of failure or setbacks. This phrase emphasizes the importance of having big aspirations and not settling for less.

      • take a risk
        Take a chance and pursue something that may seem difficult or unattainable. This phrase implies that the risk is worth it, as reaching for the stars can lead to great success and fulfillment.

      • aim for excellence
        Strive for excellence and give your best effort in all areas of life or work. This phrase suggests setting high standards and constantly pushing oneself to improve and achieve greatness.

    Examples of shoot for the stars

    • She has always been a dreamer, shooting for the stars in everything she does.

      This idiom means that the person is setting very high goals for themselves, aspiring to achieve great things. It implies that the goals may seem impossible or far-fetched, but the person is determined to work hard and strive for success.

    • The company's latest product is a game-changer, with the potential to shoot for the stars in the industry.

      This idiom can also be used to describe something that has the potential to be incredibly successful or innovative. It suggests that the product or idea has the potential to revolutionize the industry and become a major player in the market.

    • After years of hard work, he finally feels like he's shooting for the stars in his career.

      This idiom can also be used to describe a person's progress or success in their career or personal life. It suggests that the person has worked hard to reach a point where they feel like they are achieving their goals and making significant progress.

    • Despite the setbacks, she never lost sight of her goal to shoot for the stars in her field.

      This idiom can also be used to describe a person's determination and perseverance in the face of challenges or obstacles. It suggests that the person has a strong sense of purpose and is committed to achieving their goals, even in the face of adversity.

    • The team's performance in the tournament was nothing short of shooting for the stars.

      This idiom can also be used to describe a group's or team's success or performance. It suggests that the team or group has exceeded expectations and achieved a level of success that is exceptional or remarkable.


    Conclusion

    The phrase "shoot for the stars" is commonly used to encourage someone to have big dreams and take risks. It conveys the idea of aiming high and not settling for less, as reaching for the stars can lead to great success and fulfillment. It also emphasizes the importance of striving for excellence and constantly pushing oneself to improve.

    Origin of "shoot for the stars"

    The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle, who famously said, "The aim of the wise is not to secure pleasure, but to avoid pain." This concept of aiming high and striving for excellence has been passed down through the ages and is reflected in the idiom "shoot for the stars."

    In the 1800s, the phrase "shoot for the moon" was commonly used, with the same meaning of aiming for something difficult or seemingly impossible. However, in the mid-20th century, with the space race and the achievement of sending humans to the moon, the phrase evolved to "shoot for the stars," as the stars symbolize even higher and more ambitious goals.

    Today, the idiom "shoot for the stars" is often used in motivational speeches, self-help books, and everyday conversations to encourage people to have big aspirations and take risks. It serves as a reminder to not let fear or doubt hold you back from reaching for greatness.