Double-barreled: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually used to describe a shotgun with two parallel barrels. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something with two parts or elements.

• He loaded his double-barreled shotgun before heading into the forest.
• The new policy has a double-barreled approach to tackle both unemployment and inflation.

Often used interchangeably with 'double-barreled', though it may be less common and can imply a more symmetrical or paired nature of the two barrels.

• The twin-barreled cannon was a fearsome sight on the battlefield.
• The car features a twin-barreled exhaust system for improved performance.

Straightforward and descriptive, it can be used interchangeably with 'double-barreled.' It is less idiomatic and more literal.

• He carried a two-barreled shotgun while hunting.
• The apparatus has a two-barreled structure for delivering liquids.

Less commonly used, it can describe firearms with two barrels or metaphorically indicate something with two aspects. It tends to sound more technical or formal.

• The hunter decided to try out the dual-barreled rifle for better accuracy.
• The initiative presented a dual-barreled strategy to address the issue.

Use when referring to something that has two parts or aspects, often with an emphasis on being powerful or significant. Commonly used in firearms context or metaphorically to describe something impactful.

• He had a double-barreled plan to increase sales and boost employee morale simultaneously.
• The double-barreled shotgun was his weapon of choice for hunting.

Appropriate when referring to something that has two features or functions, especially in technical or formal contexts.

• The car has a dual exhaust system for better performance.
• She has dual nationality, holding passports from both Canada and France.

Useful when indicating that something is doubled or has two distinct aspects, often used in academic or analytical contexts.

• The research had twofold objectives: to understand the causes and to propose solutions.
• The benefits of the new policy are twofold, improving both efficiency and employee satisfaction.

Best used to describe a strategy or approach that has two main parts or directions, often used in formal or planning contexts.

• The company adopted a two-pronged approach to market expansion: online advertising and physical store openings.
• The health guidelines have a two-pronged focus on prevention and treatment.