hotshot

[/ˈhɑːtʃɑːt/]
nounpl: hotshots
pessoa importante; gênio; astro
1. An important or successful person, especially one who is arrogant or overconfident about their abilities
He thinks he's a hotshot just because he won one game.
Ele acha que é importante só porque ganhou um jogo.
2. A person with exceptional skill or talent in a particular field
She's a hotshot lawyer in Manhattan.
Ela é uma advogada brilhante em Manhattan.
3. A fast or powerful object, particularly a fast train or car
He drives a hotshot sports car down the highway.
Ele dirige um carro esportivo rápido pela rodovia.
This term is widely used in American English, particularly in business and sports contexts, often with a slightly derogatory or ironic tone suggesting arrogance. In Brazil, it's used in both formal and informal settings, sometimes with admiration, sometimes with skepticism. The term carries connotations of success mixed with overconfidence.
NYC Slang
big shot; heavy hitter; player
Synonyms / Sinônimos
big shotbigwigVIPacestarexpertwhizsmarty-pants
Antonyms / Antônimos
nobodynonentityamateurnoviceunderling

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
pessoa importante; gênio; astro
Common term in informal contexts
Rio de Janeiro
mandachuva; craque
More colloquial usage
São Paulo
executivo de sucesso; expert
Often used in business contexts
Portugal
figura importante; gênio
Less commonly used; English term often retained

Related Words

shothotbig dealhigh-flyeroverachieversuccess

Related Idioms & Phrases

hotshot lawyer
hotshot executive
think you're a hotshot
act like a hotshot
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