scattershot

American  

[skat-er-shot] / ˈskæt ərˌʃɒt /

adjective

1. delivered over a wide area and at random; generalized and indiscriminate.

   a scattershot attack on the proposed program.

---

scattershot British  

/ ˈskætəˌʃɒt /

adjective

1. random; haphazard

   their approach to conservation is scattershot and unscientific

---

Etymology

Origin of scattershot

First recorded in 1960–65; adj. use of scatter shot

Example Sentences

Much of this kind of scattershot viewing can be a result of training.

From The Wall Street Journal

Meanwhile, the scattershot green spaces across Los Angeles offer another opportunity.

From Los Angeles Times

Up to now, the policy has been haphazardly applied, through scattershot raids on locations such as Home Depot parking lots.

From Los Angeles Times

He’s not a scattershot but he’s not exact.

From Los Angeles Times

But numerous academic experts and medical professionals believe those moves, while well intended, have been scattershot and insufficient.

From Los Angeles Times