gun
- 01 A2 Elementary
n.a weapon that shoots bullets or shells, such as a pistol or a rifle.
n.a weapon consisting of a metal tube from which projectiles are discharged by explosive force or other stored energy.
Simple“The police officer carried a gun on his belt for protection.”
In context“The treaty strictly regulated the calibre of guns permitted on naval vessels patrolling the neutral zone.”
- 02 B1 Intermediate
n.a tool that you hold and use with a trigger, like a tool for hot glue or painting.
n.a device operated by a trigger that resembles a firearm in shape or mechanical action.
Simple“He used a glue gun to fix the broken handle of the mug.”
In context“The technician used a high-pressure spray gun to apply an even coat of sealant to the aircraft's fuselage.”
Synonymsapplicatorsprayer - 03 C1 Advanced
n.a slang word for strong arm muscles.
n.a metonymic reference to well-developed biceps muscles.
Simple“He has been spending a lot of time at the gym showing off his guns.”
In context“The bodybuilder struck a pose that highlighted his guns, much to the delight of the gathered crowd.”
UsageAlmost always used in the plural form.
- 04 C1 Advanced
n.someone who is very good or skilled at a particular job or activity.
n.an individual of notable skill or prominence in a specific field.
Simple“They hired a young gun from the city to manage the new marketing project.”
In context“The firm brought in a hired gun to navigate the complex legal challenges of the merger.”
Teacher's tipCommon in Australian English and business contexts to describe a high-performer.
- 05 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to make an engine go much faster very quickly.
v.to increase the speed of an engine or vehicle suddenly and forcefully.
Simple“He gunned the engine and the car sped away from the lights.”
In context“The driver gunned the motor, sending a cloud of exhaust into the air as the vehicle roared up the steep incline.”
SynonymsAntonymsbrakedecelerate - 06 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to try very hard to get something or to defeat someone.
v.to pursue a goal or target an opponent with intense focus or aggression.
Simple“The other teams are all gunning for the champion this year.”
In context“After the scandal broke, several rival politicians began gunning for the minister's resignation.”
UsageUsually used with the preposition 'for'.
Usage gun buyback · gun control · gun laws