hit
/hɪt/to strike or make contact with force
She hit the nail with a hammer.
She struck the nail using a hammer.
The car hit a tree during the accident.
The car collided with a tree in the accident.
Can be used both literally and metaphorically.
to reach a target or achieve a goal
The singer hit the high note perfectly.
The singer successfully reached the high note.
The company hit its sales target this quarter.
The company achieved its sales goal this quarter.
Often used in contexts of success or achievement.
to become popular or successful
The new album hit big last year.
The new album became very popular last year.
The movie hit the top of the box office.
The movie became the most successful at the box office.
Common in informal contexts, especially in entertainment.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Literal vs. Metaphorical Use
Be mindful of the context to distinguish between physical contact and metaphorical success.
⚡Gold Rule
Common Collocations
Remember common phrases like 'hit the road' and 'hit the books' for natural usage.
📖Word Origin
Old English 'hittan', from Proto-Germanic 'hitjanan' (to meet by chance). Related to Old Norse 'hitta' and German 'heißen' (to be called).
📝Usage Notes
Can be used both literally (physical contact) and metaphorically (achieving goals, popularity). Common in both formal and informal contexts.