Ammunition: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'ammunition' when referring to a supply of bullets or explosive material for use in guns or artillery. This term is general and can be used in both military and civilian contexts.

• The soldiers were running low on ammunition during the battle.
• Hunting regulations require all hunters to carry their ammunition responsibly.

Use 'ammo' as an informal abbreviation of 'ammunition'. It is more commonly used in casual conversation or in contexts where brevity is preferred, such as video games or colloquial speech.

• I need to buy more ammo for my next weekend trip to the shooting range.
• In the game, you have to collect ammo to stay alive.

Use 'munitions' when referring to military weapons, ammunition, and equipment collectively. This term is broader and often used in more formal or technical contexts.

• The factory is producing munitions for the army.
• Munitions supply was essential for the war effort.

Use 'bullets' specifically when referring to the individual projectiles fired from guns. It focuses on the small, metal part that is shot from firearms.

• He found a box of bullets in the old shed.
• The police recovered several bullets from the crime scene.

Use when referring to bullets and shells used in guns and other firearms; also applicable in a metaphorical sense when talking about arguments or information used to support a position.

• The soldiers ran out of ammunition during the battle.
• She gathered all the ammunition she needed to win the debate.

Appropriate in discussions or debates where people present reasons or evidence to support their viewpoints.

• They had some convincing arguments during the meeting.
• Her arguments were solid and well-researched.

Refers generally to tools or instruments designed for inflicting harm or damage, including guns, knives, and other arms.

• The police found several illegal weapons in the suspect's car.
• Swords and spears are ancient weapons used in battle.

Use when referring to the action of defending from or resisting attack, whether in a physical, legal, sports, or other context.

• The team’s defense was strong and they won the game.
• He provided a strong defense in court to prove his innocence.