shot in the “Pandemic provided a arm for US fixed broadband”

USAGE

A shot in the arm is a boost. This can be a boost of extra energy, fresh enthusiasm, new support or additional money. The headline above refers to the fact that broadband companies have seen an increase in customers, as more people have needed a good internet connection while working from home ― so the Covid-19 pandemic has given their business a big boost. A similar expression ― “cash injection” ― refers to an investment of money, whereas a “government stimulus package” is such an investment made on a national level.

In German, a “shot in the arm” could be a Motivationsschub, an Auffrischungskur,a Finanzspritze or an Impulsgeber ― take your pick, or think of another translation that best fits the context.

The phrase “shot in the arm” has been used a lot in recent news reports about the fight against Covid-19, as it has a double meaning when referring to a vaccination programme (see “Word to go”). A vaccination programme protects people from the virus while giving public morale a boost and bringing hope for the economy ― so it is a shot in the arm in both senses.

BACKGROUND

www.telecoms.com, 5 March 2021 News article about internet providers

In American English, a “shot” is an injection, such as a “vitamin shot”, the annual “flu shot” or, this year, the “Covid shot”. So, a “shot in the arm” is an injection of something that helps you feel healthier or more energetic. By the way, the British English equivalent of “shot” is “jab”.