The phrase "calls shot" is commonly used in sports when a player predicts the outcome of a specific play. The spelling of "calls shot" can be easily understood through the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription: /kɔːlz ʃɒt/. The "a" in "calls" is pronounced as "aw", while the "o" in "shot" sounds like "ah". The "s" and "t" sounds in "shot" are pronounced with aspiration, represented by a small raised "h" after the letters in the IPA transcription.
Calls shot is a colloquial phrase that originated in sports and has been adapted for usage in various contexts. In sports, particularly pool or billiards, it refers to a player explicitly predicting and declaring the intended outcome of a shot before executing it. This act entails the player calling out the specific target pocket or object ball that they aim to strike. By stating a precise goal, the player demonstrates confidence and skill, increasing the level of difficulty and excitement in the game.
Beyond the realm of sports, the term "calls shot" has evolved to encompass a broader meaning. It now refers to any scenario where a person confidently makes a public declaration or prediction regarding a future action or event. In this context, "calls shot" implies a high degree of assurance and often carries a tacit challenge or an invitation to skepticism.
The expression has also been adopted metaphorically, representing a person's ability to accurately anticipate and control the outcome of a situation or predict the future with great certainty. This figurative usage conveys a sense of confidence and assertiveness, implying that the individual possesses exceptional foresight, decision-making skills, or a deep understanding of the given circumstances.
Overall, "calls shot" encompasses the notion of proactively stating one's intentions, expectations, or predictions, often in a confident or assertive manner, within a sporting, general, or metaphorical context.
The phrase "calls shot" originated from the game of billiards or pool. It refers to a player announcing or declaring in advance which specific pocket they intend to sink a ball into, before actually taking the shot. The word "calls" essentially means "to name" or "to specify", whereas "shot" refers to the act of striking the ball.