Definition

1. Noun:
   • A signal gun shot: A single shot fired from a cannon or gun specifically to give a command, signal the start or end of an event, or mark a ceremonial occasion.
   • A signal cannon: The cannon or gun itself that is used to fire such a signal shot.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Tiếng pháo lệnh vang lên báo hiệu cuộc đua bắt đầu. (The signal gun shot sounded, marking the start of the race.)
  • Đội danh dự đứng cạnh khẩu pháo lệnh. (The honor guard stood next to the signal cannon.)
  • Theo pháo lệnh, tất cả các tàu đồng loạt nhổ neo. (Upon the signal gun shot, all ships weighed anchor simultaneously.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is primarily used in formal, military, or organized ceremonial contexts (races, national holidays, ship ceremonies) rather than in everyday situations.

Variants and Related Words

• Súng lệnh (n): A signal pistol or gun; often a smaller firearm used for similar signaling purposes.
  • Viên trọng tài bắn súng lệnh. (The referee fired the starter pistol.)

Synonyms

• Signal shot: A shot fired as a signal.
• Starting gun: Specifically for signaling the start of a race.
• Signal cannon: The artillery piece used for signals.

Related Idioms

• Nổ pháo lệnh: To fire the signal shot; often used metaphorically to signify the official start of an important activity or campaign.
  • Lễ khởi công đã nổ pháo lệnh cho dự án mới. (The groundbreaking ceremony fired the starting gun for the new project.)

1. Signal gun shot