Shooting the works is an idiomatic expression that means giving it your all, going all out or using all resources available in order to achieve something. The opposite of shooting the works could be holding back, procrastinating or being conservative. It signifies a lack of energy, enthusiasm, or desire to achieve something. Alternatively, playing it safe, taking small steps, or being cautious could also be seen as antonyms to shooting the works. The idea is to avoid going all in and taking calculated risks instead of risking everything at once. Thus, antonyms for shooting the works carry opposing meanings that show how one can approach a task with varying levels of intensity and effort.