Definition

Verb: - To discharge or fire a weapon, typically a gun, releasing projectiles such as bullets or arrows.

Usage

This verb is used to describe the act of shooting a firearm or similar weapon. It often implies a deliberate release of ammunition. The phrase is typically followed by a direct object indicating what was fired (e.g., "loose off a shot," "loose off bullets").

Examples

• The hunter loosed off two rounds at the target.
• The guard loosed off a warning shot into the air.
• They loosed off a volley of arrows from the castle walls.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: While primarily literal, it can be used figuratively to describe releasing something rapidly or forcefully, such as words or criticism.
  • He loosed off a string of complaints about the service.

Variants and Related Words

• Let fly: A near-synonymous phrasal verb meaning to throw or shoot something with force.
  • He let fly an insult.
• Fire off: A more common modern synonym.
  • She fired off an email to her boss.

Synonyms

• Discharge
• Fire
• Shoot
• Let fly

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Loose on/upon: To release or unleash something (often negative) onto someone or something.
  • The general loosed his troops upon the village.

Verb

1. fire as from a gun
   • The soldiers let drive their bullets