gun for
phrasal verb.phrasal verb. to try very hard to get something, like a job or a prize, or to try to cause trouble for someone.
phrasal verb. to pursue a goal or position with great determination; alternatively, to target someone for criticism, defeat, or removal from a position.
She is gunning for the manager's job.
After the scandal, several rival politicians were gunning for the minister's resignation.
Having secured the regional title, the young athlete is now gunning for an Olympic gold medal in the upcoming summer games.
usually followed by a noun representing a desired goal or a person being targeted.
explain the metaphorical link to aiming a weapon to help students remember the intensity of the pursuit or the aggressive nature of the targeting.
He is gunning to the promotion.He is gunning for the promotion.the verb must be followed by the preposition 'for' to indicate the target or goal.
Last updated April 24, 2026