# gun for

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gun-for
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to try very hard to get something, like a job or a prize, or to try to cause trouble for someone.

For teachers: to pursue a goal or position with great determination; alternatively, to target someone for criticism, defeat, or removal from a position.

## Examples

- 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He is gunning to the promotion." but "He is gunning for the promotion." — the verb must be followed by the preposition 'for' to indicate the target or goal.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a noun representing a desired goal or a person being targeted.
- Teaching tip: explain the metaphorical link to aiming a weapon to help students remember the intensity of the pursuit or the aggressive nature of the targeting.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.