The phrase "gunning for" means actively pursuing or targeting someone or something. Its spelling follows the common pattern of "gun" + "ing" + "for," with the final "g" of "gun" being pronounced as a /ŋ/ sound (IPA symbol: ŋ). Therefore, the correct IPA phonetic transcription of "gunning for" is /ˈɡʌnɪŋ fɔːr/. This phrase is often used in informal settings, such as in sports or business, to describe aggressive competition or determination to succeed.
Gunning for is an idiomatic expression that originated from the world of firearms and has transitioned into figurative usage. It is often used to describe someone's strong determination or intense ambition to achieve a particular outcome or target. Typically, it signifies a focused pursuit of success or victory.
The phrase "gunning for" evokes the image of a shooter intensely aiming at a target in a firing range or during a hunt, where a high level of concentration, precision, and determination is required. It conveys the idea of someone eagerly and aggressively striving to achieve their objectives.
In a broader context, "gunning for" is frequently employed to describe someone who is actively seeking to surpass competitors or achieve a desired position, either in professional or personal aspects of life. It emphasizes the individual's drive, confidence, and determination to attain their goal, often at the expense of others who are perceived as obstacles or rivals.
The expression can be used in various situations, whether in business, sports, politics, or even interpersonal relationships. For instance, an ambitious employee may be "gunning for" a promotion, demonstrating their eagerness to outperform colleagues and attain higher career advancement. Similarly, a competitive athlete may be "gunning for" the championship, showcasing their relentless pursuit of victory.
Overall, the phrase "gunning for" emphasizes the aggressive, focused, and relentless pursuit of a specific objective, often accompanied by intense determination and eagerness to surpass competitors or achieve success.
The phrase "gunning for" has its origins in the early 19th century. The etymology can be traced back to the use of firearms and hunting terminology.
The verb "gun" has been used since the late 16th century to refer to the act of shooting with a firearm. The term "gunning" as a verb means the pursuit of game birds or other animals using a gun. It was widely used in the context of hunting in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The phrase "gunning for" itself originated in the 19th century, specifically in America. It developed as an idiom in the Western and later became more widely used. The phrase was typically used to describe someone who was eagerly and aggressively pursuing or targeting something or someone.