Pronunciation: [ʃˈuːt ðə wˈɜːks] (IPA) 
The idiom "shoot the works" is spelled phonetically as /ʃuːt ðə wɜːks/. It means to make an all-out effort or to use all available resources to achieve a particular goal. The origins of this phrase are unknown, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The word "shoot" is pronounced with a long "u" sound, while "works" is pronounced with a long "e" sound, followed by a soft "r".
The phrase "shoot the works" is an idiomatic expression that originated in the early 20th century. It is believed to have derived from the world of gambling and eventually expanded into broader usage.
When someone says they are going to "shoot the works," it means they are going to go all out, giving their maximum effort or investing their maximum resources into something. It conveys the idea of not holding back and taking bold, decisive actions. The phrase is often used to describe situations where one is taking risks or making a substantial commitment.
In a gambling context, "shoot the works" refers to a player wagering their entire stake on a single bet, staking everything they have on the outcome. By doing so, they are leaving no room for caution or moderation, instead opting for an all-or-nothing approach. This high-risk approach can bring great success or devastating failure, and therefore, the phrase is often associated with consequential outcomes.
Outside the gambling context, "shoot the works" is used figuratively to express a similar sentiment. It can refer to individuals or organizations taking extreme and determined actions to achieve their goals, disregarding potential consequences or obstacles. This can include investing significant time, money, or effort, embracing a do-or-die mindset in pursuit of success.
Overall, "shoot the works" captures the essence of wholehearted commitment, emphasizing a willingness to take significant risks and go to great lengths to achieve one's objectives.
