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Firearms: meaning, definitions and examples

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firearms

 

[ˈfaɪərˌɑːrms ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

weaponry

Firearms are portable guns, such as rifles, shotguns, and handguns, designed to be used in combat or for personal protection. They use a controlled explosion to propel a projectile out of a barrel at high speed.

Synonyms

guns, weapons.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
firearms

This term is often used in legal, military, or formal contexts to describe guns collectively.

  • The police officers were trained in the use of firearms.
  • He was arrested for illegal possession of firearms.
guns

This is a more casual and common term used in everyday language to refer to firearms.

  • He likes to go to the shooting range to practice with his guns.
  • There are strict laws about who can own a gun.
weapons

A broader term that includes not only guns but also knives, bombs, and other items used to cause harm. Often used in a context referring to violence or crime.

  • The criminal was found in possession of several different weapons.
  • The soldiers carried weapons to protect themselves during the mission.

Examples of usage

  • Police officers are trained to use firearms in dangerous situations.
  • Hunters often rely on firearms to hunt for game.
  • Gun safety is crucial when handling firearms.
Context #2 | Noun

hunting

Firearms are commonly used by hunters to pursue and kill wild animals for food, sport, or population control. Different types of firearms are suitable for different hunting purposes, such as rifles for long-range shooting or shotguns for close-range hunting.

Synonyms

hunting guns, hunting weapons, shooting arms.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
firearms

When talking about general weapons that shoot bullets, such as pistols and rifles. This term is often used in legal, military, or safety contexts.

  • The new law regulates the sale and possession of firearms.
  • Proper training is crucial for anyone handling firearms.
hunting guns

Specifically refers to guns used for hunting animals. This term implies a specific purpose and is usually discussed among hunters or in the context of sporting.

  • He bought a new hunting gun for the deer season.
  • Make sure your hunting gun is properly maintained before the hunt.
shooting arms

This term is quite formal and may be used in legal or technical contexts to refer to any device designed to discharge a projectile. It's less common in everyday language.

  • The training covered the proper use of various shooting arms.
  • He is an expert in the mechanics of shooting arms.
hunting weapons

A broader term than hunting guns. It covers any weapon used for hunting, including bows and crossbows, not just firearms.

  • They discussed the best hunting weapons for the trip.
  • Different regions have specific regulations for hunting weapons.

Examples of usage

  • Hunters must follow regulations when using firearms in the field.
  • Firearms have become an integral part of hunting traditions in many cultures.
  • Some hunters prefer traditional firearms over modern alternatives.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The development of firearms began in the 9th century in China with the invention of gunpowder.
  • By the 1400s, firearms had evolved into hand cannons and were used in warfare across Europe.
  • The matchlock mechanism became popular in the 16th century, allowing soldiers to fire guns more reliably.

Legal Perspectives

  • Different countries have specific laws governing the ownership and use of firearms, reflecting cultural attitudes towards weapons.
  • In the U.S., the Second Amendment of the Constitution is often cited in debates over gun rights and regulations.
  • Licensing and registration of firearms vary widely, with some nations requiring extensive background checks.

Technology

  • Modern firearms now include advanced safety features, such as trigger locks and smart gun technology that recognizes the owner’s fingerprint.
  • The development of semi-automatic and automatic firearms has drastically changed both military and criminal applications.
  • 3D printing has introduced the possibility of creating firearm components at home, raising concerns about regulation and safety.

Cultural Representation

  • Firearms often appear in movies and video games, depicting both heroic actions and violent encounters.
  • The portrayal of firearms in media can influence perceptions of safety, danger, and personal freedom.
  • In historical narratives, firearms signify power shifts, such as the transition from swords to guns in the age of empires.

Psychology

  • Research shows that exposure to firearms in media can desensitize individuals to violence over time.
  • The fear of firearms can vary greatly, often reflecting personal experiences and cultural backgrounds.
  • The idea of 'armed self-defense' taps into psychological concepts of empowerment and control.

Translations

Translations of the word "firearms" in other languages:

🇵🇹 armas de fogo

🇮🇳 आग्नेयास्त्र

🇩🇪 Schusswaffen

🇮🇩 senjata api

🇺🇦 вогнепальна зброя

🇵🇱 broń palna

🇯🇵 火器

🇫🇷 armes à feu

🇪🇸 armas de fuego

🇹🇷 ateşli silahlar

🇰🇷 화기

🇸🇦 أسلحة نارية

🇨🇿 palné zbraně

🇸🇰 strelné zbrane

🇨🇳 火器

🇸🇮 strelno orožje

🇮🇸 skotvopn

🇰🇿 атыс қаруы

🇬🇪 სასროლი იარაღი

🇦🇿 atəşli silahlar

🇲🇽 armas de fuego

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,819, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.