direct hit

[/dɪˈrɛkt hɪt/]
nounpl: direct hits
acerto direto
1. A strike or impact that reaches its target exactly, without missing or glancing off
The missile scored a direct hit on the enemy bunker.
O míssil acertou diretamente o bunker inimigo.
2. A situation where something has a strong, immediate, and obvious effect on a person or thing
The scandal was a direct hit to the company's reputation.
O escândalo foi um golpe direto na reputação da empresa.
3. In sports, a shot or throw that reaches the intended target precisely
The pitcher threw a direct hit to home plate.
O arremessador acertou direto na base.
The term is commonly used in both American English and Brazilian Portuguese in military, sports, and metaphorical contexts. In Brazil, 'acerto na mosca' is a popular colloquial variant that adds a colorful, idiomatic touch. The expression reflects a universal understanding of precision and impact across cultures.
NYC Slang
bull's eye, money shot
Synonyms / Sinônimos
bull's eyedead centerperfect hitexact strike
Antonyms / Antônimos
missglancing blownear missindirect hit

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
acerto direto
Standard term used in most of Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
acerto na mosca
Colloquial expression meaning hitting the mark precisely
São Paulo
acerto certeiro
Emphatic variant highlighting accuracy
Portugal
acerto direto
Same as Brazilian Portuguese; can also use 'impacto direto'

Related Words

impactstriketargetaccuracyprecision

Related Idioms & Phrases

a direct hit on someone
score a direct hit
take a direct hit
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