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to shoot one's bolt
01
to utilize one's final and decisive efforts, often in a critical moment
![to [shoot] {one's} bolt definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/43054/original/?type=jpeg "to [shoot] {one's} bolt definition and meaning")
Idiom
Informal
What is the origin of the idiom "shoot one's bolt" and when to use it?
The idiom "shoot one's bolt" originates from archery and refers to the act of shooting an arrow from a crossbow or similar weapon. In this context, "bolt" refers to the projectile or the arrow itself. This expression is used metaphorically to describe the act of expending all of one's energy, effort, or resources in a single effort or endeavor.
Examples
The team shot its bolt in the final ten minutes, but the equalizer never came.
