The spelling of 'gotten a shot' has been a topic of debate for some time. In American English, the word 'gotten' is commonly used as the past participle of 'get', while in British English, 'got' is preferred. The phonetic transcription of this phrase is /ˈɡɒt(ə)n ə ʃɒt/ in British English and /ˈɡɑːt(ə)n ə ʃɑːt/ in American English. While there is no 'correct' spelling, it's important to be consistent with the style guide you're using to avoid confusion.
"Gotten a shot" is an informal expression that mainly finds its usage in American English, typically in casual conversations. It is a colloquial phrase that means to have received a vaccination or an injection, particularly in terms of getting inoculated against a disease or illness. The word "shot" in this context refers to a syringe filled with medication or a vaccine that is administered through a needle into a person's body, usually intramuscularly or subcutaneously.
The phrase "gotten a shot" implies the completion of an action, suggesting that the person has already undergone the process of being vaccinated. It is often utilized when discussing personal experiences or when inquiring about someone's vaccination status. For example, one might ask their friends or family members, "Have you gotten a shot yet?" to inquire about whether they have received a particular vaccine, such as the COVID-19 vaccine.
While "gotten a shot" is informal slang, it has become increasingly prevalent in everyday conversations, especially when discussing vaccinations or immunizations. However, it is worth noting that the phrase may differ in usage and prevalence across different English-speaking regions.